A creative ode to Benarasi sensibilities
The Indian weaves contain the story of intricate artworks that comes alive with the passion of weavers. This passion took centre stage at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2023, when a speciallycurated show by the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), themed Benaras — A tribute to the Senses, was presented to craft lovers.
“We’ve called it to be a tribute to the senses as it’s a visual treat in the form of textiles, a creative treat in the form of what designers brought to the table, palate senses when the guests had kulhad-wali chai, the music of Benaras, the feel of the aarti when we created a set on the same lines with diyas,” says Sunil Sethi, chairman, FDCI.
Eight fashion designers — Abhishek Gupta, Amita Gupta Sustainable, Asha Gautam, Hemang Agrawal, Pawan Sachdeva, Shruti Sancheti, Suket Dhir, Tanmaya and Manish — came together for the showcase. Directed by Anu Ahuja, it was replete with tradition and spellbinding artistry showcased through the glittering weaves.
Sachdeva’s collection was a union of bold and beautiful with Western formal and athleisure, while Sancheti’s work of Ginkgo motifs, geometric chevron and leaves woven in rose gold and gun metal in a neutral colour palette made many take notice.
“Ancient civilisations have come and gone, but Kashi is still alive, with its unabashedly colourful and wonderfully rich history. We tried to present the central, most ancient city of India with an attempt to stimulate all the five senses,” says MD Sinha, IFS, principal secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt of Haryana and vice chairman, Surajkund Mela Authority.
We’ve showcased the vibrancy and innate love for life of its (Benaras’) inhabitants. MD SINHA, IFS, Vice chairman, Surajkund Mela Authority
Everybody talks about the mystic of Benaras with its ghats, aarti. But, what appeals to me is the tradition of Benaras silk textiles. SUNIL SETHI, Chairman, FDCI