JOIN USFans of traditional textiles and patterns are in for a treat. ‘Woven Weaves’, an exhibition of Indian handlooms, is currently on at the Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India Limited (CCICIL).
The exhibition showcases traditional and exquisite handlooms from different parts of the country and includes saris, dress material, woven wear, bedspreads and accessories from across India.
The traditional weavers who create these pieces are present at the exhibition and customers can interact with them to understand the different material and patterns that are on display. Printed chanderi, maheshwari from Madhya Pradesh, kota silk and telia rumal designs are the highlights of the exhibition. While some of these prints are commonly available, others are a little more hard to find.
“The telia rumal, which comes from Andhra Pradesh, is quite exclusive since there are only a few weavers who specialise in this kind of work,” explains Manjula Raghuram, assistant manager of CCICIL. “Chanderi is a mix of silk and cotton and is known for its texture and light weight.
Ikat from Andhra Pradesh and narayanpet and kota from Rajasthan are also available,” she adds. In addition to material, readymade clothes for both men and women are also on display.
“Many of the customers come here asking for cotton material. We are expecting a large crowd, particularly during the weekend,” says Manjula.
Other interesting items on display are cut-work from Varanasi, printed cotton material from Rajasthan, batik from Gujarat and mangalgiri unstitched sets.
“I liked the variety that is available here. It’s nice to see different kinds of work under one roof. These items are perfect as gifts. Besides, all of them are affordable,” says Anu, who visited the exhibition on the first day.
“It’s an interesting collection of saris and dress material. Some of the varieties I have found here are new to me,” says Sheila, another visitor. She agrees that the price range is quite moderate.
The items at the exhibition are priced between Rs 600 and Rs 5,600. The exhibition is on till June 23 at MG Road and the HSR BDA Complex.