The traditional weaves of Ikkat have taken various forms at the Ikkat Art Mela, which was inaugurated by Tollywood actor Varsha at Sindhi Panchayat Hall here on Friday. Organised by Pochampally Handloom Park, the nine-day exhibition has a wide range of handloom products. Some seven members of the organisation displayed their products that include colourful fabrics like stoles, scarves, saris in silk and cotton, dupattas, and home furnishing materials such as table mats, pillow covers, cotton shirts and kurtis.
Catering to evolving tastesA 10 per cent discount is being offered on all products at the expo. The cotton and silk saris come in a variety of interesting colour combinations apart from the traditional shades of reds and maroons. The starting price of the cotton saris is Rs 1,600 and the silk saris cost Rs 4,000. Catering to evolving tastes and keeping in view the tough competition in the fashion industry, the themes and designs of the fabrics reflect freshness and a deliberate effort to move out of the run-of-the-mill styles. Bed sheets and pillow covers have a blend of new patterns and colour shades with intricate patterns painstakingly done in handlooms by the weavers.
Hopes of good turnout“We organise similar shows across the country to showcase and popularise the Ikkat products of the members of the park. Our next destination will be Delhi and Pune,” said D. Sai, marketing in-charge, Pochampally Handloom Park Ltd.
With Sankranti round the corner, the organisers are hoping for a good turnout at the expo here. The Ikkat mela will be on till January 5.
