From Shibori salwar suits to Pochampalis, from hand blocked printed Maheshwaris to Chanderis and textiles from  Sanganer, the products together presented a riot of colours, from pastel greens to fiery orange red to indigo blue.

 

“Our aim was to cater to the Durga Puja shoppers and at the same time, showcase the talent of these weavers, many of whom are renowned internationally and have received national awards," said Mala Dasgupta, spokesperson of the Crafts Council.

 

Speaking on the different textiles on display, Dasgupta said, “One of our special textiles here is the Shibori, which is based on the Chinese method of tie and dye and it is very popular with our clients."

 

Some of award winning weavers showcased here include Anuradha Pegu from Assam, Gajam Anjiah from Karnataka, Biren Basak and Ramananda Basak from West Bengal, G Govardhana  from Telangana and Suraj Narayan Titanwala and Avdesh Pandey from Rajasthan.

 

The exhibition also presented several exquisite textiles such as Dongara tribal sarees from Orissa; ‘Khumbo’ temple bordered sarees in silk to cotton jamdani weaves from Varanasi and even double ikat Telia dupattas.

 

Bengal too had a fair share, with Begumpuris and Tangails and even the kantha saree in vivid colours and prints, all of which are sourced directly from the looms of master weavers.

 

Not simply sarees and dupattas, the exhibition has on display specially crafted pieces of jewellery, some of which are made from dried grass from Bolpur, and can be accessorised with any saree or kurta.

 

Chandbalis and neckpieces made of copper can also jazz up a puja outfit while 'batua' bags in a unique Ajrakh print will complete any traditional look for the festivities ahead.

 

The exhibition is on till September 17, from 10am-7pm. 

 

(Reporting by Tanushree Sen, IBNS)