Of memories and their magic. That is what makes up Shanti Banaras’ edit ‘With Love’. Shot by photographer Sarang Sena in a style dating back to the “analogue” photographs, the series features prosthodontist Aparna Verma, entrepreneur Kethose Nagi, filmmaker and visual artist Arsh Grewal, Nina Dutta, founder of footwear label The Shoe Factory, Kuchipudi exponent Divyangna Ahuja, violinist Madina and Khushi Shah, creative director, Shanti Banaras. The muses have picked objects laden with soulful memories, for the shoot, like Arsh Grewal’s grandma’s alarm clock or Madina’s first violin. The Telegraph caught up with Khushi, to know more.
‘With Love’ sounds and looks amazing. What was the genesis?
Shanti Banaras is a celebration of traditions, memories, and the eternal love for saris. Our latest campaign serves as a loom for these stories, weaving love across generations. It’s an ode to nostalgia and how it can lend meaning to objects and materiality.
The pictures are the real heroes. Tell us about the idea of shooting them the way you have.
The visuals explore the creative possibilities of handcrafted (analogue) photographs made with meticulous planning, patience, and precision. A process where a stream of colour gives way to the nuances of greys with fine detail. The process is rare; no two images are the same. It’s truly one-of-a-kind — much like the craftsmanship of our silk ensembles. Each handcrafted photograph from the campaign, much like the saris, captures the space of time on an 8x10-inch sheet of paper. It all comes alive with the flow of chemicals — and the magic of colour.
There are so many memories in the pictures. Which one was your favourite story? What are some of your most beautiful memories?
My favourite and most cherished memory belongs to the story with my grandmother, of course. She would bring us the humble tulsi mala, especially from Gokul Dham. Tulsi stands for divinity, wards off evil, and reminds me how certain rituals — big or small — can bring us closer to our family.
What are your memories of your grandmother?
Shanti Banaras is named after my grandmother — a strong, resilient woman who was an inspiration for the whole family. The one thing that reminds me of her every time is her love for saris. She would carry them with so much elegance and ease.
Tell us about the saris in the collection...
The saris featured in this collection are like modern-day heirlooms, which take you from geometrical prints in muted golds to lush reds featuring Indian flora and fauna. They’re all woven with real zari — a weaving process that’s now slowly diminishing. In Banaras, zari weaving came into its own in the 19th century with complicated weave structures being created with gold-coated thread.
What are the most precious heirlooms that you possess?
My grandmother gifted me her wedding sari. It’s a cotton real zari sari — it’s truly precious.
What do you think is the power of memories?
Memories give meaning to material objects so they’re extremely valuable to me. They can act as a soothing balm in tough times, bring a smile to your face on a busy day and bring you closer to your loved ones.
What kind of saris are you wearing a lot this summer?
Fabrics play an important role for me during summer. So wispy organza blends that look beautiful for a dinner or a get-together. Or, airy cotton blends that keep you cool during the day.
What are you working on next?
We’ve just launched our spring 2023 collection, a lineup of saris that celebrate florals, and spring-inspired hues and are perfect for summer. I am also excited about our upcoming flagship store launch in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai. It’s a heritage-inspired space and is set to launch in May.