Karigar Kahaniyan is a special series where gifted artisans from all over India present fresh translations of traditional crafts, exclusively for Jaypore. Meet artisans from Kutch, associated with Somaiya Kala Vidya, read their stories and discover their beautiful creations.
Jharmar, Ajrakh, Bandhani & More: Karigar Kahaniyan Has Hidden Handloom Gems From All Over India
Vankar Nitesh Namoribhai
Vankar Nitesh Namoribhai from Bhujodi is a true advocate of handloom products. A graduate of Kala Raksha Vidhyalaya in Kutch, for this collection, he has woven saris for the first time apart from the stoles, experimenting with new ideas for placement of motifs. Inspired by the playfulness and varied moods of children, he has tried to translate the same to his weaves, by mixing and matching his signature fine lines with surprising details and fresh hues.
Juned Husen Khatri
Juned Husen Khatri was awarded the position of ‘the best student’ during his gradution in Somaiya Vidya in Kutch. He comes from a family of traditional Ajrakh painters in Ajrakhpur.
His collection is titled ‘Iftita’, meaning ‘beginning’ and explores Ajrakh in a new light, experimenting with contemporary silhouettes and dupattas. Unlike printing blocks on repeat, he’s experimented with random layouts, creating a bark-like texture.
Dayalal Atmasam Kudecha
Dayalal Atmasam Kudecha, a veteran weaver, studied at Kala Rakhsha Vidhyalaya and Somaiya Kala Vidya and is now a faculty member at SKV. Taking to traditional techniques and motifs, he crafted this special collection of saris, stoles and dupattas that also features woven motifs inspired from jharmar, a type of necklace worn by the women of the nomadic Ahir community. He was a part of the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, and has also showcased at Lakma Fashion Week.
Basir Fakirmamad Khatri
A graduate of Somaiya Kala Vidya, Basir Fakirmamad Khatri believes in the power of ‘finishing details’ in one’s designs. He feels good design stems from the perfect balance between traditional and contemporary elements.
For his exclusive collection of saris and dupattas for Jaypore, he was inspired by the swirling movements of creepers and has translated it as alluring bandhani dots; the experiment with colours draws from his observation of the light to dark effect, seen in flower petals.
Laxmiben Kalyanji Puvar
After leaving school in the seventh grade, Laxmiben Kalyanji Puvar learnt embroidery from her mother. She has studied at Kala Raksha Vidhyalaya and Somaiya Kala Vidya and has also been a faculty member at both the institutions.
She has also mentored chikan workers in Lucknow. In delicate hues and weaves featuring eclectic suf-embroidered motifs, Laxmiben enthrals with her special collection of dupattas and saris for Jaypore.
This recommendation was first posted on Jaypore
