It is time once again to celebrate the magic of the sari at the Crafts Council of India's Textile, Fabric and Jewellery exhibition. Each product on display is proof of the outstanding creativity and synergy of master weavers, craftpersons and designers from across the country.
Rare weaves from different regions of the country which talk of a hoary tradition are given a contemporary touch, while ancient motifs and patterns lend an ethnic touch to the textile crafts of vegetable dyeing, block printing, embroidery and zardosi. The ‘revived' avatar of the magnificent Parsi gara and the eclectic charm of the Japanese Shibori find a place at the exhibition. In colours that mix, match and merge with harmony, the saris smack of cool elegance.
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The saris cast a spell, catch the eye and touch the soul. Vidhi Singhania's delicate, exquisitely woven kotas fit the old Roman description of the Indian fabric as ‘woven out of breeze.' From Kota brocades to designer saris, Vidhi endows each of her creations with sheen and delicacy which are matchless. Ramanand Basak's Bengal cottons and khadis have an earthy charm as do the kosas and tussars from Vidharbha, Assam's muga silks, and rich, textured Bhagalpuri saris and fabrics.
Incomparable in their craft are Abdul Jabbar Khatri's bandhini range and National Award winner Alima Khatun's kantha embroidered saris, dupattas and stoles. The exquisite hand embroidered pieces from Kutch crafted under the aegis of Shrujan Trust too offer a stunning experience.
Then there are Shibori exclusives done on Maheswari cotton and tussar while Vishal Kapur's dramatic range enchants with its innovative couture charm. Gajam Govardhana's ikats and Mangalgiris represent two of the oldest textile forms of the Deccan. Amongst all this is the timeless charm of Benarasi in delicate weaves of amris and butties and borders…
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All these and more await one at CCI's exhibition which also has on display diamond jewellery and elegant handcrafted hand bags to complete the look. The exhibition is on at Hotel Chola Sheraton, Cathedral Road, today and tomorrow.