Sui Dhaga
That I should engage myself with weaves and crafts, has been a foregone conclusion. My corporate career spanning over two decades, did teach me a lot of new things, train me to a lot of newer experiences, but did not gratify the burning passion for which my heart has been craving for- the passion for CREATIVITY! And this is when the idea came to me, to start upon a journey that my soul seeks for – the journey of creativity! For me, it is spiritual journey that helps me understand myself as well!
The various needle work and embroidery forms, have always fascinated me. When I thought to create a collection of embroidered sarees- Sui Dhaga, for me it has been to say to myself ‘Voila!’ My journey started from here, visiting these clusters that are in much back of beyond locations, talking and learning about the embroidery forms from the artisans directly. This journey took me to rural parts of Bengal, Bihar, North Karnataka, Gujarat and yes, what I learnt has been a treasure trove! My work shows various needle work forms like Kasuti, Lambani, Kantha stitch, Sindhi embroidery, Sozni, Aari, Tilla, Sujni and much more.
At times, I have stayed with the artisans, mainly rural women, whose deft hands and nimble fingers embroider the most intricate and exquisite patterns on fabric! At times, not knowing the local language and dialect did pose as a temporary challenge. Particularly, while working with Kasuti artisans, of North Karnataka. But we did overcome it, as Craft has its own Language! Universal, it is! And this language helps me bond with the artisans beyond caste, creed, religion, language, culture and food habits! Craft is the Religion for us, practicing it is the spiritual journey we take! Here I see the picture of our rich, diverse heritage, a Heritage of Unity in Diversity! That’s all that matters!!