This writer still recalls the thrill of being gifted their first fountain pen upon moving into high school. “The fountain pen still has a place of pride among collectors,” reveals Nisha Singhi. It is a busy weekend for the Singhis who are helming The India Pen Show that opens on Saturday at Worli.
Vinisha Singhi and Nisha Singhi
“The community of fountain pen collectors is a niche one in India, but quite large,” explains Nisha. Often, it is a passion passed down through the generations. Daughter Vinisha admits that her own interest in fountain pens was sparked by her parent’s passion for it. In 2019, the first international pen show in India was announced. Now, the showcase travels across multiple locations across India every year. “In recent years, the interest in journaling, and analogue, and digital saturation has pushed many of the new generation to take up an interest,” admits Vinisha.
Pens are not all the showcase brings to the city. From artisanal inks to zentanglist sessions, the two-day showcase has something for everyone. Calligrapher Achyut Palav will host a live calligraphy session on the first day. There is also a pen repair table where you can bring your old fountain pens to refurbish them, and learn the key to their maintenance. For the artistically inclined, a calligraphy jam by Manish Soni, Arsh Karale, and Vipul Sondagar adds to the magic of the experience. It is time we sign up for it.
ON May 23 and 24; 10 am to 8 pm
AT Nehru Centre, Lotus Colony, Dr Annie Besant Road, Worli.
LOG ON TO theindiapenshow.com (to register)
ENTRY FREE (Silver ticket); Rs 499 (Gold ticket); Rs 2999 (Platinum ticket)
The Guide’s Top Picks
Fragrance on ink
The Philippines-based Arcus Artisan Inks will bring their Ink Café line — Vanilla Latte, Americano and Matcha-scented inks — for every Gen Z visitor’s delight.
Going 3D
From the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Colosseum, the Indian design studio, Abstract Pens Studio, designs 3D writing tools inspired by some of the iconic structures around the world.
Sign with style
This one is for writers looking to make an impression. The Vazir Uluka comes with a distinct and artistic hand engraved nibs by artist and jeweller, Gaurav Kapoor.
Fire on the mountain
This pen comes straight from the volcanic lava of Mount Etna in Italy. The Italian brand Visconti’s Homo Sapiens series features a body crafted from the active volcano’s basalt lava.
Luxury chic
Trust the Italians to represent fashion. The car designers Pininfarina apply their sleek concepts to these creations that are stylish, functional, and classy.
Keep an eye out for the distinct individual clips on each pen which adds that Italian style to your outfit.
Participants at a calligraphy workshop. Pics Courtesy/India Pen show
A collection of pens on display during an iteration of the show
Participants display their calligraphy creations
