New Delhi, Apr 29: The second evening of Project Tantavyaa: Shwet Shyam by RSB Foundation featured an immersive fashion theatre titled Recreating the Baithak Era, curated by revivalist designer Pankaj S. Chadha.
The showcase presented a narrative of India’s eastern textile traditions, where garments were experienced as expressions of heritage. Jamdani drapes, handwoven Muslin, and Muga silk from Assam took centre stage, each reflecting months of detailed craftsmanship. These were complemented by hand embroidery, surface ornamentation, and revival techniques that drew from archival designs while remaining relevant today.
Silhouettes were inspired by the intimate baithak setting, graceful and fluid, featuring angarkhas, layered veils, and handwoven saris. The colour palette stayed true to the philosophy of Shwet Shyam with ivory, off-white, deep indigo, and muted earth tones reflecting devotion, duality, and balance.
Accompanied by live vocals from noted classical vocalist Vidya Shah, the presentation moved beyond a conventional runway, bringing together music, movement, and textile. The textiles echoed the devotional traditions of Krishna Bhakti across regions from the spiritual resonance of Jagannath Puri in Odisha, to the devotional movements of Bengal, and the Vaishnavite and Sattriya traditions of Assam, where craft, music, and faith have long existed in harmony.
Speaking about the showcase, Revivalist Pankaj of brand Pankaj. S. Heritage said, “These textiles carry stories of people, places, and traditions that have been passed down over generations. Through Tantavyaa, we are trying to bring them back into everyday conversation and give them the space they deserve today.”
At its core, the evening recognised the women artisans whose skill and dedication shape each textile. Their craftsmanship, carried across generations, remains central to preserving these traditions and sustaining livelihoods.
