In an age of digital burnout, a trend of creative workshops is quietly growing across the city, with more youth choosing tactile, art-based experiences over digital scrolling. Many of these workshops are hosted during weekends in cafes or artist studios, with a room full of young people, college students, early professionals, and groups of friends gathered not just to sip coffee but to learn the art of pottery, ceramic art, painting, perfume making, and more. Some participants of these workshops shared with ‘The Hitavada’ that the atmosphere is casual, warm, and inclusive, ideal for newcomers and those seeking a no-pressure creative outlet.

 

“I started attending canvas painting sessions just out of curiosity, but now it is something I look forward to every month,” said Samiksha Wankhede, an undergraduate student. Sakshi expressed that it is not just about learning to paint, it is about slowing down and staying away from digital space. From texture painting to clay and ceramic art, and even DIY perfume-making using natural oils, the offerings are diverse. Harsh Joshi, who recently attended a clay modelling session with his childhood friends, observed that a growing number of youngsters are seeking ways to disconnect from their screens. “Many spend 8 to 10 hours a day on laptops and phones. These workshops help us reconnect with people in real life.

 

I have met strangers here who have become good friends and now we exchange updates about workshops happening in the city,” explained Harsh. Another participant of these creative workshops, Megha Raut, noted that now people want to do something with their hands, it is therapeutic. “Five years ago, weekend plans were all about going to the movies or malls. Now it is more like, let us book a workshop and make something. It is more memorable with friends,” added Megha. There is also a subtle but noticeable rise in gender inclusivity. Earlier seen as female-centric, these creative sessions now draw male participants in good numbers.

 

Hrithik Solanki, who attended a candle-making session with his cousin sisters, expressed, “I thought it would be awkward at first but there is no judgment, just people wanting to create and have fun.” In a world dominated by filters and fleeting attention spans, these workshops are offering something refreshingly real, all while the phones stay forgotten in pockets and bags. “One does not need to be an artist to join these workshops. One just needs to show up,” stated Sharvari Desai optimistically. However, the popularity of workshops comes with a common refrain - the cost. “Most workshops are priced high per person, which can be a bit much for a student. I wish more colleges or community centres offered these for free or lower rates, so more people would join,” said Ishani Anand, who has been trying to attend more budget-friendly sessions Participants share a common belief that these workshops extend far beyond acquiring a new skill, while also encouraging social interaction in an organic way.