It’s an explosion of colours at the Gujarat handicrafts exhibition at Jawahar Balbhavan. Peacock blues vie with emerald greens, rust browns, lavenders… Organised by Gujarat Emporium, Ernakulam, the exhibition is one that will make the purse considerably lighter as one goes on a shopping spree.
Shoppers, especially women, who are seeking to expand their wardrobe will be spoilt for choice at the fair. Cotton saris from West Bengal and Gujarat, kurtis from Kashmir and Orissa, skirts and tops, dress materials and bed sheets comprise the fabric section.
The fair has the latest patterns in ready made kurtis in rainbow colours. According to a salesperson at the mela, Anarkali styled kurtis with a thick Daman patch worked border at the bottom of the kurta is trendy. While some of these borders have zari work on them, others have hand embroidered work. The prices for these kurtas start from Rs. 580.
Those who like khadi can pick from a range of striped khadi kurtis in pastels. Match these tops with jhumkas that come in different finish – white metal, black metal, gold plated, Meenakari work, and you will have created a look that spells ethnic. Coming in various sizes and in bright colours, one can select jhumkis to match your clothes.
If Western wear is more your style, then check out the wrap arounds (there are knee-lengths, three-fourth lengths and ankle-lengths) with ethnic designs or the crinkle skirts with floral and geometrical prints. Team it with short hand embroidered kurtis.
Running material in a variety of colours and prints are available too. Men have a range of outfits to choose from. Kurtas in plain colours are available, as well as readymade khadi shirts.
Jewellery seems to be a highlight this time around. Those who like chunky jewellery will find the collection of stone studded pendants and earrings, a treasure trove.
Kundan worked jewellery sets that come in a combination of American diamonds, rubies and pearls are popular. The price for these sets start from Rs. 3,000.
There are also interesting knick knacks in ‘Assam wood’. Those who are in a hunt for bedsheets should check out the reversible bedsheets (price starts from Rs. 960 for a double sheet) in khadi.
A 20 percent discount is on for handlooms and 10 percent discount for handicrafts. The exhibition is on until January 19.
