Tales from Weavers

Holy Narrative
Lush brocades, jamdanis and Banarasi silks came together in a mesmerising showcase by Ritu Kumar in ‘Varanasi Weaves’. The Padma Shri awardee, who worked with weavers in Banaras for over a year, opened with a line of white-on-white pieces. Gossamer weaves were highlighted with intricate gold threading on saris, tiered dresses and anarkalis. Worn with shimmer gold churidars, the vibrant Banarasi saris were entwined with moga threading to make them lighter. While an exquisite gold brocade layered kurta shone through, Kumar also presented Lampas weaves, made using an ancient Buddhist technique. Showstopper Aditi Rao Hydari walked on ramp in a fuchsia that, Kumar confessed, took over a year to make.

New Bride
Hyderabad-based designer Gaurang Shah sought inspiration from the love story between Prithviraj Chauhan and Samyukta, naming his collection (pictured above) after the latter. Beginning with an enthralling Kathak performance to the beats of a live band, Shah showcased luscious reds and oranges, using Kanjeevaram, Khadi, Paithani, Patola and Banarasi weaves. Barefoot models, wearing big naths and vermillion, sashayed down in anarkalis, ghagras and sarees. Zardozi, gota, chikankari and doria embroidery adorned the pieces. The designer presented an amalgamation of styles; a red lehenga paired with an angrakha-style blouse and a stunning Patola maxi skirt with a lame gold blouse and red dupatta. As the two dancers took to the stage again, twirling to the tabla, Shah took the curtain call with his models, winding down an ethereal wedding story.