Nandita Das Instagram – Just back from a few lovely days in Bangalore. Unbearable traffic aside, I love the city — mainly for its trees and people. And some amazing cultural spaces. Finally visited the Bangalore International Centre (BIC) and was amazed by the space, their programming, food, and energy—it truly nourishes the city. My parents and I were there in full support, as were many others.
I was there as a handloom wearer and advocate and also as a sister. Chiara Nath and my brother Siddhartha, co-curated and designed River Weaves – Brocades of Banaras by Chandra Jain. Chandra ji has spent decades reviving the weaves, and this exhibition and the book that I released, beautifully capture that journey.
It was special to share the dais with Laila Tyabji, whom I deeply adore and admire. It was refreshing to see Chandra ji’s husband and son quietly working and supporting the initiative, with the spotlight rightly only on her. The panelists were all women, and so were most of the assistants and all this without much ado.
It was good to meet the master weavers from Banaras — Shahid Junaid, Nadeem Ahmad and Amresh Kushwaha, who were fully acknowledged and appreciated. Often they remain faceless and nameless in public spaces even while their craft is being celebrated. The show and the book are a treasure for all sari and handloom lovers.
If you are in Bangalore, do go to BIC and see the show and get your copy of the book.
@chandraa.jain @kimkhabbychandrajain @siddharthadasstudio @siddharthadas_india @nath.chiara @bicblr @lailatyabji | Posted on 18/Aug/2025 13:24:45
