Step into a place where the past isn’t just remembered—it’s sung, painted, and lived anew. ARPO (Archival and Research Project) is a spirited not-for-profit organisation, born in Kerala, that invites everyone to rediscover the magic of India’s cultural roots. Founded in 2021, ARPO’s story begins with a simple idea: that every forgotten folk song, every crumbling temple, and every untold legend deserves a second chance to shine.
Picture a team of researchers, artists, and local storytellers, trekking through forests and villages, gathering songs from tribal elders and recording tales that have never been written down. Through Earthlore, ARPO’s flagship project, these voices are not only preserved but celebrated—shared on national stages and woven into new collaborations between traditional and contemporary artists.
But ARPO’s imagination doesn’t stop with music. The organisation has breathed new life into centuries-old sites, like the Kunnamangalam Bhagavathi Temple, whose restoration won both a UNESCO award and the admiration of the local community. Their Lorekeepers Project has crowdsourced over 1,000 pieces of Kerala’s folklore in just one year, building a digital archive that anyone can explore.
Images courtesy: ARPO website
Workshops, festivals, and school programmes are all part of ARPO’s creative journey. The team believes that cultural heritage should be fun, engaging, and accessible to everyone, from curious children to lifelong learners. They are passionate about giving voice to marginalised communities, ensuring that those who hold traditional knowledge are at the centre of every project.
Partnership is at the heart of ARPO’s approach. By collaborating with schools, local governments, and other NGOs, ARPO expands its reach and impact, making sure that the stories and skills of Kerala’s diverse communities are not just preserved, but celebrated and shared far and wide.
Know the team better
ARPO, on LinkedIn
Sruthin Lal, Co-founder & Executive Director
Parvathi AR, Co-founder & Director, Projects & Outreach
In just a few years, ARPO has become a beacon for cultural preservation, earning national and international recognition for its innovative, community-centred work. The organisation is driven by a simple but powerful belief: that every story matters, and that by honouring the past, we can build a brighter, more connected future.
For anyone who loves the thrill of discovery, the beauty of tradition, and the promise of shared culture, ARPO is an invitation to join a living, breathing archive: where yesterday’s wisdom becomes tomorrow’s inspiration.
