Sales and exhibitions are back in full force in the city. Weaves, bringing together the products of looms from different states in India, is one of the much awaited ones. For three years now, they have been making a mark with their diverse range of saris, dress material, embellishments, accessories and furnishings.
This edition of Weaves, which began at the RDR auditorium at Edapazhanji on Wednesday, has a mindboggling variety of saris and dress material in numerous textures, blends and designs.
Weavers of West Bengal, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Maharashtra have woven a fine range of products for fashionistas in the city.
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A walk through the auditorium is akin to a trip around the weaving traditions of India.
Jute silks in vibrant colours and earthy shades, polished and raw tussars, and Kantha-worked saris from West Bengal compete with Uppada saris glowing elegantly with weaves of gold embellishing each piece. Double weave Ikkats, Ghicha silks and cottons give you value for money although the silks are quite pricey.
Benares silks and silk cotton from Uttar Pradesh offer tough competition to Rajasthani cotton and silk Kotas in mesmerising shades. Most of the saris come with blouse pieces.
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From Bihar comes eye-catching Bhagalpur silks, both running material and saris. While classy silks are ideal for formal occasions, chikan work from Lucknow in light pastel shades are for all ages and occasions.
One of the specials this year is a striking collection of silks with Kalamkari prints and zari borders. A tad on the expensive side, these pieces are for ardent collectors of saris who hanker for that one exclusive piece. Handbags, pouches and bags with beadwork, embroidery and mirror work light up a stall from Delhi while a stall from Punjab draws customers with its spread of cushions cover, table runners, table mats...
The exhibition has bales of material and embroidered borders of different kinds that come with and without zari. Rolls of worked borders in rainbow colours, sequin-worked blouse piece, yokes for dresses and more tempt the designer in you. Then there are design houses that have come with their specials. Shruti Mahadev from Maharashtra is coming to the city for the second year. Each piece has been customised by her. Even duppattas have a little embroidery, lace or net that make them stand out.
Even if you have no plans to loosen your purse strings, drop in to enjoy the sheer diversity and richness of India’s textile traditions.
Prices range from Rs.1,500 to Rs. One lakh.
The exhibition is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. It concludes on July 28.