There was a wedding hall, a grand feast, georgettes dipped in crystals and gold, a cacophony of colours and some dholaks. The occasion? The marriage of the Indian artisan to the outlets of the world. It was Murdrarika's ‘Utsav', which celebrated the revival as also the confluence of the various lost art forms of India.
A Government of India initiative, Mudrarika was formed to sustain India's creative glory by bringing to the forefront traditional artisans and art forms. ‘Utsav' is Murdrarika's fifth exhibition in the city, and it displayed handicrafts, jewellery and garments.
“So far, we have helped revive around 400 art forms. We have 44 consultants from across the country who identify and help us get bring traditional artisans. And, we hope to open our first retail outlet by April,” says Shiela Raju, CEO, Mudrarika. The group currently outsources its products to the Government and works on orders.
Opt for tradition
Utsav was home to fortune-telling parrots, pichkariphulkari salwars and potters dedicatedly teaching everyone their art. How willing are people to wear the badge of tradition? Says Shiela: “Our biggest challenge is bringing about a change in the mindset of the Indian buyer. They must choose to buy Indian products made using traditional techniques. As compared to machine-made products, hand-made creations are time-consuming; hence, the price.”
Mudrarika is known for its thematic events. This time, it celebrated the five holy rivers of India with a fashion show accompanied by dance recitals with each colour representing a river. Saris in varying shades of green brought on stage the spirituality of the Ganges, while Yamuna (which represents health and purity) was predominantly blue and white. The serene Godavari was depicted in shades of yellow, and the vibrant Narmada in white. The show ended with garments in a furious crimson, representing the powerful Cauvery.
