The intricate grill has a story to tell. It talks of the time the great Mughal Emperor Akbar came to Sheikh Salim Chishti to request his help in prayer for a male heir. He was rewarded by not one, not two, but three fine boys. In gratitude, Akbar built the Sufi Saint’s dargah in Fatehpur Sikri. Today, people tie yellow and red strings at the same grill for any plea that undoubtedly has been answered manifold. This artists’ book is intensely personal to the user. To make it work, first make a wish. Then, tie a string on the grill. Bind one page to another with your own wishes.

Artist statement: I can never forget a childhood visit to this dargah. Here, I made a wish to pass in my Maths exam. And it worked.

© 2003 by Priya Pereira