“Every story begins long before it gets a name.”

The first seeds of Khamkheyal were quietly planted on 9^th August, 2019, through an initiative called Trip Snap Stories at Travelistaan. It was much more than a photography event. It was an experience that taught us how a single photograph could start a conversation, how travel could connect strangers, and how creativity had the power to bring people together.

That experience inspired us to keep exploring.

Every new idea became another opportunity to create. Every event carried a different identity, yet the spirit behind them remained the same. Sometimes it was Trip Snap Stories. Sometimes it became An Anthology of Lens, Colours & Life. At another time, it took the form of a Self-Defence Workshop. We never realised then that these seemingly different events were slowly becoming chapters of one larger story.

In 2019, we had the opportunity to organize an exhibition at Gallery Gold in South Kolkata. From 26th to 28th September, we organised An Anthology of Lens, Colours & Life. It brought together lifestyle and creativity in a space where every photograph carried a story and every handmade creation reflected someone’s passion. More importantly, it became a place where conversations mattered just as much as the exhibits themselves. Visitors didn’t simply come to shop from small brands—they connected with the people behind them.

It was a valuable learning experience that introduced us to the world of independent artists, lifestyle exhibitions, and creative entrepreneurship. Watching creators interact with visitors, sharing stories behind their work, and seeing small brands receive appreciation inspired us to dream a little bigger.While the audience saw beautifully arranged displays, another story unfolded behind the scenes. Friends carried tables and display boards, climbed ladders to hang photographs, arranged lights, shared hurried meals, and laughed through every last-minute challenge. Those moments of teamwork became just as precious as the exhibitions themselves.

Around the same time, a four-storeyed house in Sealdah quietly became the heart of our journey. It welcomed endless planning sessions, decoration nights, rehearsals, celebrations, and dreams that slowly began to take shape. Artists walked in carrying canvases, photographers arrived with carefully packed frames, and friends came saying they would help “for just an hour” but stayed until midnight.

Without anyone announcing it, that house had become our second home.

As more people joined our events, one question was asked again and again:

“What is your group called?”

We smiled because we didn’t really have an answer.

Every event had a different name, but the people, the purpose, and the warmth remained the same.

By the end of 2019, we realised that our journey had found its direction.

Now, it simply needed a name.