“THE DABBA LUMINAIRE ™”

The Dabba Luminaire is a light art installation that juxtaposes the utilitarian and the esoteric as a means to convey unity and connection. The design explores the interplay between a common, everyday object and the ethereal attributes of light.

The “dabba”, also known as a ‘tiffin box’, is one of the most commonly used material objects in India to this day. Emerging in the 19th century as a practical solution for storing and transporting individual meals to the working masses, the ‘dabba’ is a three-tiered metal box that delivers nourishment to employer and employee alike. Its ubiquitous purpose and use bridge the gap between people regardless of status or location, symbolizing the oneness of all.

Light, throughout the ages and across religious philosophies, has signified the omnipresence of the divine, an energy force that manifests creation and unity. It represents the triumph of wisdom over ignorance, faith and enlightenment emerging from the shadows, good overcoming evil, and hope casting out despair. Light and darkness are experienced in rhythmic alternation, contingent on each other, and it is within this cosmic dance that light prevails.

Harmony is reached between the commonplace and the celestial as the Dabba Luminaire projects three synonyms of the word “Light” in beautiful calligraphy. The limited edition series includes a version with three words in Arabic, English, and Japanese respectively. Each tier displays one word, chosen for its energetic frequency and capacity to uplift.

In Arabic: “Nour al Huda”, “Muneera”, and “Ziya”

In English: “Light of Faith”, “Illuminate”, and “Glow”

In Japanese: “信の光 Shin no Hikari”, “照らす Terasu”, and “灯り Akari”

In Braille:
Light of Faith ⠇⠊⠛⠓⠞ ⠕⠋ ⠠⠋⠁⠊⠞⠓
Illuminate ⠊⠇⠇⠥⠍⠊⠝⠁⠞⠑
Glow ⠛⠇⠕⠺

Made of brass for its grounding effect and durability, the Dabba Luminaire is an impeccably designed, functional art object. The pieces are meticulously hand-crafted and intricately engraved, with a select few showcasing gold plating for an added sense of reverence.