The size and breadth of the nation is dwelling to a plethora of textiles; all indicative of a variety of craftsmanship and ability. This has taken centrestage within the Crafts Council of India’s (CCI) showcases in Chennai during the last 20 years.
Tari — the loom, the summer season showcase this weekend organised by the CCI could have saris, kurtas, dupattas and yardage from looms throughout the nation. The saris at this showcase embrace jamdani, brocade, patola, Chanderi and chikankari.
“Saris are the single most versatile piece of unstitched fabric. It is the mainstay of our handloom industry. As the late textile revivalist Martand Singh said, as long as that unstitched fabric remains in abundance and usage, all is well,” says Bela Mistry Khaleeli, vice chairperson, CCI.
Ikat by Erisri
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Special Arrangement
CCI, she says, has been interacting with artisans to revive and revitalise saris. “We aim to bring together a number of different weaves from across the country, and also promote it among younger people. The more people take to wearing saris, the more predominant it becomes,” she provides.
At Tari this yr, 31 collections can be showcased by artisans with a spotlight on sustainability and the use of eco-friendly processes. Jeenu Panika, a younger 25-year-old weaver and designer who dabbles in tribal weaves from Kotpad has a sari assortment with distinctive woven motifs, pure colours and craftsmanship. Benaras saris created by award-winning weavers who’ve revived the jamdani fashion of weaving on Benaras saris would be the spotlight of the model Nilambari’s assortment, and Unma by Sapna could have handcrafted tussar silk saris with designs impressed by tribal tattoo artwork crafted from pure fibres and hand spun yarn. Among the opposite designers and manufacturers collaborating are Vimor, Nadiya Paar, Kosala, Rajni, Sankari Boutique, Woven Collections, and Erisri Ahimsa Silks.
Saris from Kosala
The Tari showcase can be focussed on an amalgamation of India’s artisanal abilities via summer season centric textiles, says Jayasri Samyukta, government committee member, CCI.
“People in Chennai love seeking out handmade, artisanal textiles. This is an opportunity for anyone who appreciates India’s indigenous crafts to meet the makers,” she says. Artisans, Jayasri says, all the time have one thing distinctive to share. “Interactions with them provide a valuable insight into their craft, and personal stories of the journey of how it came to be,” she provides.
Tari —the loom by Crafts Council of India can be held on March 7 and 8 from 10am to 7pm at WelcomHotel by ITC (previously often called Chola Sheraton), Cathedral street.
Published – March 05, 2025 01:38 pm IST
