They are a walking ode to their own creations. And seeing what they are wearing, makes me want to rush to Tvaksati and pick up a couple of saris myself. Both Kamala Upadhyayula’s pale pink and blue drape and Nandini Vedachalam’s green and mustard chequered silk are nothing short of stunning.
The brain child of these young women who quit their run-of-the mill corporate jobs to do something different and more creatively satisfying, Tvaksati offers a range of saris, stoles and dupattas that are timeless, unique and beautiful.
“Tvaksati in Sanskrit means to create. And at Tvaksati we strive to create something unique,” says Kamala.
Nandini admits that she always has had a penchant for ethnic wear. “I’ve always worn a lot of Indian fabrics and styles. I would go to my tailor and give him unique designs. Soon my friends would ask me to help design their clothes as well which was really encouraging.”
“Nandini has around 10 years experience in the financial world but was always interested in doing something in design. I have around 13 years of software experience but was looking at doing something creative where I could play with colours and patterns and designs. It was a very natural synergy that brought us together to start Tvaksati,” adds Kamala.
“We wanted to break the mind set that traditional wear is outdated and unwearable. Our clothes stick to traditions but they also have a contemporary twist, are eminently wearable and make sure you stand out in a crowd and get appreciated,” says Nandini.
The two young women travelled to the interiors of the country, unearthing different craft forms and connecting with weavers, artisans and NGO's to source their products. “They work against the odds and in such difficult conditions to sustain these beautiful forms of art,” says Kamala. “We wanted to bring their work to the forefront. Every creation is an ode to those numerous unsung artisans and weavers from all across India.”
Their collection is showcased online and also through exhibitions. The next one will be held at Raintree between April 11 and 12. For more details, view www.facebook.com/tvaksati2012.
