Designing For Cultural Identity

A creative team member at AlignX designed an inspiring 2023 calendar that brings the vibrant, lesser-known culture of Odisha, a state on India’s east coast, to life. Known as “India’s best-kept secret,” Odisha’s rich traditions and daily life are rarely seen by those outside of India. This project aims to share this unique culture through a beautifully illustrated, compact calendar.

Odisha’s culture remains largely unfamiliar to people beyond its borders, and traditional wall calendars are losing popularity due to a lack of visually engaging designs. This calendar offers a fresh perspective—a mini, space-saving calendar filled with lively illustrations that highlight the cultural richness of Odisha, transforming a simple date-keeper into an invitation to explore an extraordinary way of life.

The calendar follows Chiki, a young Odia girl, through the seasons of her life, with each month featuring her everyday activities that reflect the customs, festivals, foods, and traditions of Odisha. From local celebrations to daily routines, each illustration captures the heart of this culturally diverse region, providing an authentic glimpse into Indian life. Designed to be both functional and aesthetic, the calendar offers a visually appealing addition to any wall while sparking curiosity about Odisha’s heritage.

The Odisha Culture Calendar is more than just a tool for keeping track of dates—it’s a cultural experience. Each month, viewers discover something new about an Indian state steeped in history and tradition. This project exemplifies AlignX’s talent for using design to tell stories and connect audiences to cultures around the world.