Exhibition traces revival story of antique handloom saris

On display at the India International Centre (IIC) here are old photographs, textile samples and revived versions of antique hand-woven saris, which tell the tale of a 45-year journey of hand-holding of Indian handloom weavers by textile expert Pavithra Muddaya.

The exhibition titled "The Story of Vimor" traces the journey that began with sourcing antique saris from temple auctions.

Muddaya, who, with her mother, started textile business "Vimor" in 1974, wanted to revive traditional sari designs and started documenting their "terminology, motifs, designs, weaving techniques" and oral history.

The exhibition presents stories of revival of handicrafts, along with designs re-created by weavers.

Looking back over the years, she feels a sense of fulfilment in guiding and mentoring weavers to have scripted their success stories, with many second-generation weavers "continuing in the handloom field and not finding the necessity to migrate to other jobs and cities in search of a better life".

The exhibition is on display till July 17.