The video showcases an unconventional idea—an adventurous truck ride undertaken by Pooja, disguised as a male persona named "Munna." This subversive act aimed to challenge societal norms and expectations, particularly those imposed on women in India. By assuming the identity of a truck driver, Pooja sought to break free from her timid and shy roles as a daughter, wife, and mother, allowing her adventurous spirit to emerge.

 

Through the journey as "Munna," Pooja aimed to merge the bustling world of the highway with the seclusion of the artist's studio, creating a powerful fusion of experiences and perspectives.

 

The choice of dressing as a male and infiltrating the male-dominated realm of surface transportation was a deliberate act of camouflage and social commentary. In Indian society, it remains somewhat taboo for a woman to travel alone in a truck. Pooja's endeavor sought to highlight the challenges faced by truck drivers—the unsung heroes who are integral to India's infrastructure, yet often overlooked and undervalued. By becoming "one of them," she aimed to shed light on their lives and bridge the gap between the art world and the realities of everyday existence.

 

The project draws inspiration from a documentary the artist recalls, featuring a mother in Afghanistan who dressed her daughter as a boy to allow her to attend school during the Taliban regime. Although the contexts differ, the underlying theme of breaking societal barriers resonated with her own experience. In her case, the transformation into "Munna" represented a symbolic gesture, defying social stigmas and exploring the complexities of gender roles and expectations.

 

"BLOW HORN" blurs the boundaries between art and real life, offering a visceral and thought-provoking experience. "Through this performance video, I aim to create art that reflects and engages with the world we inhabit, pushing the boundaries of perception and challenging preconceived notions." By immersing ourselves in the journey alongside Pooja, we are invited to question societal norms, confront gender stereotypes, and reflect on the power of individual expression in the face of societal pressures.