Indian Author Will Lead Free Class on Toran Wall Hangings at Lavallette Library

Toran Wall Hanging (Credit: OCL)

A unique opportunity to meet an author who specializes in traditional Indian history – and design a bright piece of wall art inspired by that history – is coming up at the Upper Shores branch of the Ocean County Library in Lavallette.

Award-winning author Priya Kumari will come to the library Nov. 16, 2024 for an introduction to the art of Toran. Kumari, founder of New Jersey-based Eternal Tree Books, will describe the history and significance of the intricately decorated wall hangings. After a demonstration of the crafting technique, attendees will have the chance to create their own festive Toran.

The Toran is a decorative door hanging in Hinduism, usually decorated with marigolds and mango leaves, or a string that is tied on the door featuring the flower. Torans are traditionally used to decorate the main entrance of the home in order to please and attract the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. Torans are often the first object that welcomes guests into the home of a friend or family member.

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Born in India, Kumari is an author and entrepreneur who specializes in children’s books that convey messages of compassion, kindness and empathy, according to an announcement from the library. Her most popular title for young readers, Leaf Talks Peace: Buddha’s Message of Harmony, is the first picture book to carry a foreword by the Dalai Lama.

Those wishing to attend can register online at this link. The program will be presented Nov. 16 at the Upper Shores branch at 10:30 a.m., and will be presented later that same day at the Jackson branch at 2 p.m.