Durga Ajgaonkar
Research Assistant
(Archaeology & Museums)
Bridging Time: From Artifacts to Digital Storytelling
As I held a prehistoric stone tool for the first time, I felt an unexpected connection to the past. Each artifact, whether a delicate bead, coin or sculpture, held a story waiting to be told. My curiosity about the art and archaeology binding of these relics drove me to pursue a career in archaeology and museums.
During my journey, I developed an “inanimate empathy” for heritage relics, sensing the living memories embedded in them. At Pleach India Foundation, I learned to handle these artifacts with care, understanding that each one was a survivor of time, with a story etched into its form.
As I meticulously documented each artifact, I found my purpose in blending creativity with preservation. Every day was a new chapter – handling each artefact, measuring, observing and writing analytical remarks, accompanied by photographs. Through their digital documentation I ensured that these stories would be sustained for generations to come.
But it’s not just about preservation – it’s about igniting a sense of pride and curiosity in young minds. Every artifact we preserve and every story we tell is a step toward keeping India’s cultural soul alive. Seeing the spark of wonder in a child’s eyes as they discover their heritage makes every effort worth it. This is why I’m proud to be part of this mission to preserve and revitalize India’s art and cultural heritage.
