Woven Wonders
Protha
With hashtags like #iwearhandloom and #100sareepact still very much in vogue, this boutique in Lake Gardens owned by singer Lopamudra Mitra is a quick stop if you want to pick up something that is rooted in tradition. The Kolkata-based singer who is known for her Rabindrasangeet and Bengali folk songs, always makes it a point to wear classic weaves for her stage performances. “It was my passion for sarees that led to Protha, which means a custom, tradition or practice. Indian weaves are a beautiful part of our heritage and they must be preserved,” she says. In her store are authentic kalamkari, Bhagalpuri tassars, lightweight linen sarees, a variety of weaves from Odisha and Bangalore silks—all personally curated by her. Never mind if you do not quite know your sarees. Protha has knowledgeable shop attendants who can guide you about intricacies of the each saree’s weave and workmanship.
For gifting, you can pick up stunning silver jewellery, including chunky earrings, statement neckpieces cocktail rings that are also displayed in the store. Mitra has also started a menswear line called Purush, which has simple breathable cotton shirts with ajrakh and block print cotton shirts.
PRICE Rs 1,000 for jewellery to nearly Rs 20,000 for exquisite handvowen kanthas
AT Choruibhaati, 150/2
Lake Gardens