Kantha, the traditional textile craft of Bengal, always gets a new dimension in Farah Khan’s creations. Kantha is not just for mothers and grandmothers, but for all generations — a motto Farah unwaveringly stuck to for years since she started working with this craft. In her creations, kantha is charmingly contemporised without depriving it of its traditional elegance, rendered vibrant in bright hues to make it appealing for all age groups and explored on rich fabrics to give it a timeless touch. Her new festive collection, consisting of a huge variety, speaks of the deft craftsmanship of the artisans she works with. The versatile drapes are all handwoven statement pieces, either handcrafted or hand-painted, styled with a touch of grace that the craft demands. The beautiful mirrored walls of The Lalit Great Eastern formed perfect frames for each look. Glimpses:
ht red gachi tussore sari stands out for the unique design on its border and pallu, which is hand-painted by artisans before being embellished with running stitches. The turquoise blouse contrasts the overall look, styled elegantly with a bun, a small bindi and a chunky pair of earrings
“Swastika’s looks were curated in these beautiful saris with a Bengali touch to them. I tried to keep the make-up minimal, focusing more on the eyes. I kept the hairstyle versatile, either by simply keeping it open with some fresh flowers or by tying it up into buns that are a trendy favourite nowadays. It adds a festive feel to the looks, too. We have kept the drapes simple and easy to do yet something that brings out the best look in these beautifully kantha-stitched saris,” said Abhijit Paul, hair and make-up pro, who also styled Swastika’s looks for this shoot.
(l-r) The resplendent mix of three royal hues — blue, purple and pink — renders this Bishnupuri silk a bright touch. The white kantha stitch all over, and the colourful lotus motifs add a festive feel. The magic created on the sari with the triple shade is showcased through the drape drama, teamed with colourful jewellery to match the vibrant vibe, This gachi tussore kantha sari is appealing for its alluring motifs in bright hues. The hibiscus motif along the border and sprinkled all over the sari, along with the Durga face motif on the pallu designed with multiple coloured threads make this a statement festive drape, a sure head-turner
A t2 CHAT WITH SWASTIKA ON HER SARI LOVE:
Are you a sari person?
Well, I think I am a mad Bengali sari lover! Yes, I don’t find time to wear saris in general but in between shoots or for an occasion if I get a chance, I don’t miss it.
What are some of your favourite saris?
Definitely kantha stitch, soft jamdanis and linen. Linen is my all-time favourite. I love comfortable saris.
Do you like modern draping style or traditional draping style?
I am a Bengali; what they call a ‘sari tey nari’ kind of a Bong woman, so I definitely have a soft corner for traditional drapes. I really love the atpourey style that upholds our traditional culture but yeah being a girl of this generation, I also find modern drapes fashionable.
Do you have an inherited sari that you hold close to your heart?
All my amma’s saris. She had more than 100.
Hair, make-up and styling: Abhijit Paul, Assisted by: Sananda Mondal Laha ,
Jewellery: Gahane jewellery, Location: The Lalit Great Eastern, Calcutta.