Story of Fabrics
The Traditional Art of Bandhani
The bandhani or bandhna is the greatest masterpiece of the Indian dyer’s art. It is both a complicated and sophisticated method of resist-dyeing. Bandhani goes beyond being an art, and it is in every sense a labour of love involving tremendous patience, skill and aesthetics.
Kattam Sarees - Boxes of Tradition: Part 1
Motifs and patterns have significant connotations in mythology and folklore. They play two roles: they intrigue and entice our eyes, they ratiocinate the symbolic significance. Saree patterns are a quintessence representation of the ethos of our country and people. Many dramatic changes have transpired in the making and weaving of...
Pashmina - A Prized Possession from the Valley of Flowers
A 15th-century Kashmiri craft of weaving woollen fabric, Pashmina translates to 'gold wool' in Persian and is practised by the highly skilled craftspeople of this region using time-honoured techniques. This rare and revered fabric has a magical allure and regal demeanour making it highly sought after across the globe. Not...
The Living Legacy of Banarasi Heirlooms
Banaras, Varanasi and Kashi are the many names given to the spiritual capital of India, which also happens to be the abode for the most exquisite weaving cluster of the country. From the Vedic period to the Mughal era to the current episode in time, this land has been a...
Handicrafts of India - Part 2
Keeping the core of our culture intact for centuries, India's indigenous handicrafts and artefacts are a living legacy and a testimony to the perseverance and passion of our artisans. Spanning the length and breadth of our country, each region has a unique craft that is proudly proclaimed as its heritage....
Handicrafts of India - Part 1
An icon of India's rich and diverse heritage, the art and craft repository is valued immensely across the globe for its uniqueness, intricacy, detailing and myriad narratives. Crafted by skilled artisans, these handicrafts require an abundance of precision, eye for detail, creativity and dexterity. By avoiding the use of machinery...
Madisar: 9 yards of nostalgia and nobility
Reminiscent of a bygone era, the namesake draping style and weave of Madisar has ceremonial origins with a penchant for tradition and culture. Clothing and customs have always gone hand-in-hand since time immemorial and unfolding its narratives is an enchanting experience. The 9-yard saree of the Tamil Brahmin community fondly...
Gota Patti and the appeal of applique
The royal heritage of Rajasthan is inclusive of diverse arts and crafts which over centuries have reached a place of immense pride and prestige. Gota Patti, also known as ‘Lappe ka kaam‘, was a favourite amongst royal families and court members for its glitz and glamour. It has an...
The Colourful Chronicles of Kandangi Weaves
The land of flourishing fabrics and weaves, Tamil Nadu is home to a multitude of traditional weaving hubs. One such region is Chettinad, known for its vibrant colours and cultures, majestic mansions and architectural feats and most importantly its handloom weaves. The 250-year old weave was made prominent by the...
10 Things to look out for while buying a handloom Kanchipuram saree
Handloom weaves instil a great sense of pride and prestige amongst all of us. They are a symbol of our identity, culture and tradition, holding within its threads tales as old as time.
Athirshtam Jewellery - A Silver Style Statement
A connection forged centuries ago and a love nourished over generations, humankind and jewellery go hand-in-hand since time immemorial. One of the oldest known jewellery is believed to have been made of 100,000-year-old beads and shells. Combing through pages of history, it can be observed that from the very beginning...
