Day 1: Sabyasachi`s collection an ode to India`s textile heritage

New Delhi: Designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, known for his love for Indian textiles and heritage, showcased yet another textile-driven collection on the opening day of the Pearls Infrastructure Projects Ltd (PIPL) Delhi Couture Week here Tuesday, where 80 percent of the line was khadi based.

The line incorporated intricate craftsmanship from various parts of India - from block printing to kantha work - and used delicate khadi, natural dyes and a lot of zardosi work. The main show area had a museum-like feel with antique watches, trunks, bells and vintage photographs adorning the backdrop of the ramp. The models, in a typical Sabyasachi style - minimal make-up and a black bindi - gelled with the elaborated designs that had saris with `seedha palla`, a lot of layering in terms of achkans over saris or suits, heavily embroidered blouses and lehengas. The line had something for men as well. The male models, with their long moustaches and broad rimmed spectacles, gave an epic feel to the show. Talking about the collection, Sabyasachi told IANS that it was all about rich Indian craftsmanship and heritage that our country has in plenty. "It is like going old school and coming up with something that we knew is there...I have always been a staunch supporter of Indian textiles and this is what I tried to showcase here as well," Sabyasachi said. "The line is very romantic and gives the feel of a museum, something that is period, Victorian or simply antique," he added. As the line was mainly in khadi, the colour palette was subtle, with hues of black, red, pale green and rustic orange, though some pieces saw the use of sequins as well. The show opened with the national anthem. According to Sabyasachi, "Jana Gana Mana" is one way of connecting to people and feel the patriotism everyone has. "I believe, a feeling one can get while listening to the national anthem is immense. It just brings us together as Indians," the designer said. Though his two muses - Vidya Balan and Rani Mukerji - were present at the show, they preferred to cheer for him while sitting in the audience. Vidya wore Sabyasachi`s sari but Rani preferred to wear a black jumpsuit. -IANS