Epic inspirations

Zardosi, a type of embroidery that originated from various Persian regions, dates way back to the Rigvedic period. At a time when the art is being revived in various platforms, it is only apt that Zardosi is one of the key elements of a collection of saris and salwars inspired by women from the Mahabharata.

One of India’s top designers, Ritu Kumar’s signature Panchavastra collection of bridal wear was launched in the city on Tuesday, at the designer’s store in Nungambakkam. The collection is inspired by the five central women characters in the Mahabharata – Ganga, Draupadi, Kunti, Amba and Gandhari, with each piece being an emotive representation of the traits of these powerful women.

As some of Ritu’s loyal clients gathered at the snazzy store to get a preview of the collection which has previously been showcased on a number of occasions. The contemporary red and black kurta and lehenga ensemble beautifully shows off some of Ritu’s well-established design styles and embellishments. The Zardosi work on the dupatta beautifully balances the subtle elegance of the rest of the number.

The slightly more opulent gold georgette lehenga, inspired by Jaipur’s rich heritage, with its delicate hand embroidery, is the ideal choice for any modern bride. With special focus on neck patterns, sleeves and hems, Ritu’s designs make it easy for brides to experiment with jewellery lengths and designs.

As the models went in for a quick change of outfits, the women, amid enthusiastic fashion chatter, began exploring the racks of colourful hangers. But the minute the models returned with the black and ivory outfits, they were too hard to resist, forcing the women to return to their seats.

The ivory anarkali outfit in chanderi material had her signature aari work on it. The subtle outfit, teamed with a woven dupatta with light embroidery and bold borders, also has a splash of Kashida embroidery (Kashmiri embroidery). The anarkali gown was definitely the showstopper of the day, with its black jacket that gave it an almost-royal feel. The use of light cottons in most outfits make them perfect for summer weddings, and for a city like Chennai where almost every month is summer, this collection could well be the answer to sweat-free weddings.