India has a long history with its textiles. They have
been an integral part of Indian culture since ancient times and will continue
to be for years to come. In this melting pot of diversity, there are numerous
varieties of textiles, just as there are languages and traditions. The textiles
of each region reflect in them the quirks and charm that make the region
unique. Just as people are molded by geographical regions, climatic conditions
and other natural factors, so are textiles. Thus, the embroidery of Gujarat in
the west is uniquely different from the designs of the pashminas in Kashmir and
the saris of Varanasi differ greatly from those of Kanchipuram. The textiles of
each region are unique and beautiful in their own way.
Until recently, India
was perceived by the world as just one country with one tradition- ‘Indian’.
Thus, to them Indian textile would be just a particular kind of embroidery or a
kind of sari. It is only recently that the rest of the world is coming to
realize that India is a land with a number of textile cultures woven into it.
This realization brings with it an understanding that each of these textile
cultures has a potential to become a part of global fashion. Thus instead of
labels simply using sari inspired designs in their collections, there will come
a time when the collections will be inspired by a particular kind of sari with
its own unique design and material.
So far the Indian
textile market has captured the attention of foreign designers as something
variably different or exotic However, the emergence of Indian designers in the
world fashion arena is helping make the textiles and designs of our country
much more mainstream. There will soon come a time where clothing from the
different parts of the country will be a part of international daily wear. It
is then can we safely say that Indian textiles have established themselves in
the world market and consciousness.
Just to start with a few images from my last visit to Udaipur ,portraying traditional artworks , handicrafts and jewellery
MEENAKARI BANGLES PRICED 1000INR |
ANTIQUE SILVER NECKPIECES |
ANTIQUE WOODEN ELEPHANT PRICED 22000INR |
MEENAKARI ELEPHANTS PRICED 800INR |
ANTIQUE SILVER BRACELETS |