Depicting two touching fingerprints,Billion Impressionsexplores individual identity and human connection.
While developing the concept, we realized that the fingerprint served as the perfect metaphor for this duality.
At the same time, the very existence of fingerprints is universal.
Every human being has them.
Implying that we are united in our shared humanity.
This idea resonated deeply with me and was the inspiration behind the design.
Namdev saw universal aspects we all share, while I struggled to connect with that idea.
Similarly, things I believed were common to everyone didnt resonate with him, reveals Nila.
This contrast ultimately enriched our approach.
This paradox of unity through diversity became the core concept of our design.
Their collaboration brought together their individual perspectives and creativity, shaping the project in ways they never expected.
The sculpture consists of two structures balancing each other, much like human relationships.
We rely on one another for strength and stability, says Nila.
This idea of complementing and completing each other mirrors our working relationship and reflects the universal human experience.
The steel was pre-fabricated by craftspeople in Kharagpura major industrial city in the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal.
In my childhood I witnessed something interesting in my village.
The people were mostly farmers who couldnt read or write in any language.
For them, even signing their name was impossible, recalls Nila.
However, during elections, they used their fingerprints to cast their votes.
I remember watching them press their inked thumbs onto the voting sheet.
It was so simple, yet so powerful.
Their fingerprint was their right to be counted.
This timeless symbol of identity continues to play a vital role in modern India.
Whether unlocking smartphones or accessing biometric services, fingerprints connect tradition with technology.
We wanted to create something that represents all people.
Check out images ofBillion Impressionsbelow and find out more about the incredible project on NilasInstagram.
During elections, illiterate people use their fingerprints to cast their votes.
