To be or not to be in Arjun’s Marriage?

After a long time, my cousin Vandana broke the news of her son Arjun’s marriage, in the end, January 2018, which we have been keenly waiting. My joy knew no bounds about the news, as it offered meeting my maasis, maasas, maamas, maamis, naana, naanis, nieces, nephews, grand-children Omairra and a whole lot of my nanihaal side brethren, moreover another chance of visiting my hometown New Delhi

As February approached, in office the dates of Real-Estate Golden Pillar Awards were announced and lo and behold the date finalised was April 24. Though I had booked tickets for April 24 to attend Sangeet on April 25 and marriage on 26^th April but my hopes really dashed with the awards dates. Still maintaining the eerie silence on the mental dilemma – to be or not to be in Arjun’s marriage took a heavy toll on my thinking. One side was official responsibilities and on other side was family commitment. I announced at home, it looks impossible but let’s hope against hope, some miracle to happen. And it really happened, after a lot of deliberations, dates got shifted to May 5. I took a breather and started preparations for THE marriage in my nanihaal – my nephew!

Before leaving, I tried to complete as much work as possible amidst preparations of marriage. Still, it was looking impossible to leave as a lot of work remained on my plate and I was discouraged no end by some quarters. But I must say that my teammates Bhagyashree, Reena and Fatima took all on them and made sure that I left for Delhi joyfully. The trip is dedicated to them and not to miss the mention of my colleague T.D. Joseph who made sure that I attend this marriage. Amidst all this and more, I left for Delhi in my favourite train Rajdhani Express…for rest you read below:

I would like to make special mention of TriveniEthnics’ Ms Yashi Kavita Das who took the onus of my styling for sangeet and baraat by selecting, designing, stitching and delivering me the appropriate outfits for this special occasion. It took off so much burden from my head. An off-white lehenga teamed with electric blue dupatta with sequins all over was decided for sangeet which turned out to be a big hit amidst ladies’ present. It looked sober and bright at the same time and I was successful in achieving that Chennai Express look. The outfit is so light that it provided me utmost comfort while dancing, even doing some major steps.

Now comes evening full of fun, frolic, music, dance and dining and winning. Vandana and Jijaji made sure that guests had a great time during their son’s sangeet. DJ belted out some great musical medleys, bhangra beats to new songs, old songs and some very old songs. Jijaji dancing for her wife, Vandana, Ae Meri Zohra Jabin…la Amrish Puri style made for quite a performance. Me Jijaji and Meeta Pandey dancing on Kajra re Kajra re tere kare kare naina followed by me and Meeta dancing Kaun Pardesi tera dil le gaya and Arjun taking the cake with his performance, Chandani o meri chandani ( Bride’s name Chandani). Dimpy and Rimpy matching the steps on heavy-duty bhangra beats and Raja with lovely wife putting up some heave duty dancing was a sight to watch out for. Music was great, food was sumptuous and enthusiasm of the family noticeable.

Amidst all this and more, we danced till 1 PM in the night only to prepare for some great fun in baraat following day, accompanied with my husband Mukund. 

 

 

 

 

Marriage made in heaven, celebrated in Mumbai!

January 28, 2018, was truly memorable & special day when our cute, pretty Grishma (Lovely daughter of Bhavana & Pradip Shah) who had grown up in front of our eyes, finished her schooling in flying colours, Chemical Engineering meritoriously and became a top-notch working professional, was finally getting hitched to the boy of her dreams. Looking resplendent in South Silk Kanjiveram Saree, dressed as a Maharashtrian bride with her beautiful & noticeable Gujarati looks, she was a national bride. Groom Sumedh Mhatre is the son of Maharashtrian & Malayalam parents, let me add here that Mhatre family integrates many other communities beautifully.  Excitedly we reached the venue at 9 AM in the morning as Shaadi muhurat was at 9:27 AM.

To make the occasion more special, I decided to adorn a Saree for the wedding after a lot of deliberations as I don’t enjoy wearing a saree actually. But going by the status, Pradip & Mukund (my husband) are childhood friends (Bum Chums) and Pradip being my brother, I was bua to Grishma.  Finally, I decided to wear a saree which I picked up from Triveni Saree’s Benarasi collection in Gold with Butis all over, with bright magenta border and pallu in brocade and complimenting blouse.  I wanted to have a Rekha like the look (Hope she is not reading) for which I needed to tie it in a special manner and compliment it with appropriate jewellery. The saree was from Triveni’s Lajwanti Collection of Benarasi Saree which has Golden Zari work giving it shimmery but graceful look. Indeed, the saree was very unique. The style is traditional as the designs are inspired by the conventional Benarasi woven work. The saree and overall look got me many compliments, it is another story that I ended up looking like Usha Uthup and not inimitable Rekha.

After delicious Jain and Gujarati Banquet, it was time for a reception for which Grishma chose red and gold lehenga, whereas Sumedh opted for a more corporate look with his two-piece, looking very handsome. Grishma looked really outstanding in her outfit with complimenting hair-do and matching accessories. For the reception, I changed into White sequinned and Electric Blue Lehenga, La Chennai Express Style which was appreciated very much by one and all. My day was made!

The marriage ceremony was simple, where bride and groom had a great time, receiving blessings from elders and wishes from peers! Pradip bhai is very social and is having a big circle of friends but I and Mukund are very special and he and Bhavana made us really feel so!

Many many wishes to the blessed couple!!

PS: I gifted Grishma a beautiful Triveni Saree from Sunheri collection!

 

Sumptuous Gujarati Thali by SURAT’s SAASUMAA!

Trip to SURAT isn’t complete without dining at SAASUMAA

Gujarati Thali, the name evinces great emotion for food lovers all over the world. Why?  Gujaratis are spread all over the world, who are not only famous for their entrepreneurial histrionics but also for their culinary tastes and expertise. No wonder Gujarati food has patrons all over the world. Remeber how Ex-POTUS Bill Clinton savoured Aam Kadhi in Gujarat and he requested the dish while official dinner at Taj.

I also got the opportunity to savour famous Gujarati Thali on a Mega Fam Trip to Surat recently which turned out to be a very enjoyable affair. In the company of fellow bloggers and Triveni Ethnics team – Vitika Mehta, Yashi and Shalini Raj, the gracious hosts , we thoroughly enjoyed the thali comprising of some mouthwatering dishes and sweet delicacies. The daal dhokla in the thali needs special mention which was interspersed with heavy dollops of fruits. When I checked with very friendly manager – why fruit dhokla? To this, he replied so that patrons get complete food with dal, roti and fruits. Gujarati dal was yummy too, though I did not know, which was sweeter, the dal or the rabri.

Selfie time with fellow bloggers

But won’t you like to know where we dined? It was at SASUMAA restaurant which is located on the key location at Ring Road of Surat City, which served us most authentic Gujarati Thali comprising of several Gujarati dishes.

My Gujarati Thali…

SASUMAA Gujarati Thali offers various dishes with low spices in authenticate full Gujarati thali and serve with all the love and affection just like the mother in law. The manager was especially very courteous for us, who explained each and every dish to us and shared that there is a different menu for every meal.

They have been quite successful in their attempt to retain the distinct and authenticate Gujarati flavours. The menu at SASUMAA changes daily and varies seasonally too, so you can have your new favourites on each visit.

Gujarati cuisine refers to the cuisine of Gujarat, India, a state in western India. Despite having an extensive coastline for seafood, it is primarily a vegetarian cuisine due to the influence of Jain vegetarianism and traditional Hinduism. Many a celebrities have dined there and enjoyed the Gujarati Dal, Dal Dhokli, Dhokla, Rabri, Sabziz, Khichri like we did.

Suraj Thapar

Sachin & Anjali Tendulkar

Kulbhushan Kharbanda

Dhanraj Pillai

The typical Gujarati Thali consists of Rotli, Dal or Kadhi, Rice, and Shaak/Sabzi (a dish made up of different combinations of vegetables and spices, which may be spicy or sweet). Gujarati cuisine varies widely in flavour and heat, depending on a given family’s tastes as well as the region of Gujarat they are from. North Gujarat, Kathiawad, Kachchh, and Surti Gujarat are the four major regions of Gujarat that all bring their own style to Gujarati food. Many Gujarati dishes are distinctively sweet, salty, and spicy at the same time.

Selfie showing facade of SAASUMAA with lovely blogger Farhat & Bhagyashree

All of us dined to our heart’s content at SAASUMAA but not without mentioning our own Saasu maas, of course those who had.

After finishing the meals, we headed down for “Banarasi Paan” which refreshed us for the session ahead and also completed our trip to SAASUMAA.

 

 

 

Swirl to the Dandiya beats this Navratri…

The festival of nine auspicious days is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her various forms. Many parts of the country are decorated with Puja Pandals, Mata Temples and Ram Leela’s happening all over.

People celebrate the festival by visiting temples and offering pujas at Mother’s feet. People also observe fast during the day and eat at the sunset. In some places images of Mother Durga are also placed in beautifully decorates pandals. Special arrangements for pujas and vrats are arranged on temples dedicated to Shakti to mark these nine days as true symbol of adoration towards the divine mother and symbol of Power- Mata Durga.

Navratri (Sanskrit: नवरात्रि, literally “nine nights”), also spelled Navaratri or Navaratri, is a multi-day Hindu festival celebrated in the autumn every year. It is observed for different reasons and celebrated differently in various parts of the Indian sub-continent. Theoretically, there are four seasonal Navratri. However, in practice, it is the post-monsoon autumn festival called Sharad Navratri that is the most observed in the honour of the divine feminine Devi (Durga). The festival is celebrated in the bright half of the Hindu calendar month Ashvin, which typically falls in the Gregorian months of September and October.

Navratri is one of the most awaited festival in Gujarat. Here, Navratri is celebrated on the first nine days of Ashwin month. Devotees fast for nine days and worship the idols of the goddess. According to the tradition, the women who are observing the fast bring an earthen pot home, with holes, and light it every evening and perform the aarti of maa durga. The pot is called ‘Garbi’ and the light symbolises Shakti, ‘power’.  Garba raas and dandiya raas are the two beautiful forms of Gujarati dance which is usually performed by Gujarati men and women, who are traditionally dressed in chaniya choli and kurta. Who can forget spirited Deepika Padukone & Ranveer Singh dancing to the beats of Dandiya in Raas leela.

Gujaratis in Mumbai create “Mini Gujarat” almost all over Mumbai and celebrate Navratri with Garba and dandiya nights with Celebrity singers/ performers like Falguni Pathak and what to say of Navratri in Ahmedabad’s University Grounds where youngers dance the night out on electrifying Garba beats with amalgamation of traditional & modern music. DJs belt out one number after another, however older generation feels this is not Navratri all about but new generation has their own ways of celebrating Navratri.  It is my dream to be there for Navratri someday.

When it’s Navratri, nothing but ethnic wear suits the occasion and Lehenga Choli fits perfectly for the Dandiya nights and visiting Pandals with friends and family. Triveni has come up with some mesmerising collection of Lehengas.

Their Banarasi Celebration as the name suggests celebrates ethnicity with royalty. The collection is inspired from the woven work of Banarasi Silk and contains Santoon lining. The embroideries are to add up to the embellished look. The collection comes in different shades of pretty pinks, alluring orange, ravishing green and bewitching bright yellows. The zari work to give a splendid golden touch to Lehenga and add up to the majestic look of the woman who carries it.

Ethnic Era reminds you of the fact that era of ethnicity never ends and it should not as it celebrates culture. The collection brings in the pairing up of most contrasting colors, from dark magenta colored Lehenga to light peach Dupatta. The Art Silk collection contains intricate designs and patterns throughout the Lehenga-Choli and a plain dupatta with borders on side. It contains of patch work, laces, stone work and embroideries.

Cinderella, if you want a woven touch and silk resplendence and yet an easy to carry Lehenga Choli so that you can set your feet free (like Cinderella) while dancing to the tunes of Navratri songs, go for this. From colours of all range, orange, green, pink, beige and brown, art silk Lehenga Choli are teamed up with chiffon dupattas.

Take your pick and dance your heart out this Navratri!

 

Make in India: Triveni roots to make SAREE a GLOBAL ICON

SURAT, the textile & diamond hub of India was our destination on August 19, 2017, as a part of Mega FAM trip organized by Triveni Sarees for bloggers and media persons. We reached Surat on cloudy Saturday, only to be welcomed by very warm and charming Vitika Mehta, when we alighted from Shatabdi Express.

We headed straight to the office of Triveni Sarees located in Anupam Textile Market, which is an amalgamation of tradition and modernity, but not without noticing the huge flyovers, wide roads and host of textile hubs on both sides of the road. Mr Shailesh Saraf and Mr Arvind Saraf (Directors) welcomed us and apprised us about the making of Brand Triveni. All of us would admit that it was a very enlightening introduction of not only Triveni sarees but also of saree business as a whole.

Triveni, started by Mr Giridhar Saraf (father) in 1982, joined by the sons Shailesh Saraf, who understands Surat’s textile industry like no other and has been driving home much of the product innovation, design elements, branding strength, core sales and marketing revitalization; IITian & MITian Arvind Saraf, who brings in high level of efficiency, digitization, monitoring & innovation in the organization besides steering the E-Commerce arm.

Advantage SURAT   

Shailesh Saraf: Indeed we are in one of the biggest textile hubs of India, second to only Shaoxing in China, covering India’s synthetic production to the tune of 70 to 80 percent. Surat was well-known for its mass market offerings till recently, but now it is catering to designer wear market as well, which we know as a niche market.   Today Surat is known for cutting edge products through its insurmountable investment in latest technologies be it in the field of designing, weaving, printing, embroidery or fabric. It is delivering exceptionally well on both counts – inspirational values and the volumes.  Surat is one such place which covers most of the India especially in sarees and we are proud to note that over 90% population is wearing in ‘Surat ki Saree’.

Strengths TRIVENI

Shailesh Saraf: We at Triveni offer very cutting edge designs at highly competitive price points which are our USPs and have given us higher authority in the markets all over. Over a period of time, we have developed a deep instinct about what would work where. I can safely say experience matters more in this field. My day begins with thinking about designs and creating those designs which augurs well to most “Hard to Please” segment – The Indian Woman.

We need to be very focused as Saree or ethnic wear is a very personalized business, and the subject needs in-depth knowledge and widespread reach to make an impact. We are basically distributor led model but our sarees have been going to many countries like Australia, Malaysia, Mauritius Singapore, Spain, Dubai and London etc. though in small portions, but yes we are there.

We do follow fashion forecasts trends dictated by various seasons, internationally like Fall-Winter or Spring-Summer, but predominantly Triveni caters to the tastes of Indian Market which is festivities and weddings driven. With the onset of marriage season, our colour pallets comprise mostly reds, maroons, magentas or oranges which are in sync with the taste of Indian brides. For festivals like Navratri, we do huge varieties of Chaniya Choli collections and for Diwali, we do sarees with traditional weaves and heavy designer inputs.

Make In India: Saree to be Global Icon!

We have some idea that how to promote Indian saree in the world market under the aegis of “Make in India”. I believe Saree is one thing which can take this initiative to just another level. We need Government’s support to work in this direction and empower saree players like us. In case saree reaches on the shelves of big international retail brands like Wal-Mart, then its reach would be phenomenal. Now we have noticed that even foreign diplomats are wearing sarees on India’s Independent day and many other similar occasions. I really want to work for “Make in India” but for that Indian Government needs to make initiation for us. We are ready to initiate the dialogue on this. If saree is declared ethnic wear for the world and is sold duty-free on International airports then its reach it will work magic for BRAND SAREE.

Laila Tyebji, doing great work on handloom sarees

Late PM Mrs Indira Gandhi

Maharani Gayatri with Jacklene Kennedy

Smriti Iraniji, Minister of Textiles

Sushma Swarajji, Minister of External Affairs

“If a foreigner wants to buy a saree, she should be offered some special pricing, this way niche market will automatically expand. From Surat it is very difficult for us to promote saree on that scale, hence for that initiative is needed from New Delhi.  My aim is to make the saree the preferred Indian wear for the world.”

The Game Changer E-COMMERCE  

We have strengthened our E-Commerce platform in the recent past which enables us in catching the pulse of live customers, whose feedback is immensely valuable. We have customers from far – flung countries of the world besides the US, UK, Mauritius, Singapore etc. where we ship our sarees to the end consumers. Our E-Commerce business is 10% of our total turnover. It is a very robust platform which every woman needs to experience. We are selling through E-Commerce websites like Jabong and Myntra and our experience has been good overall, moreover we feel a presence on these sites is important as these provide visibility and we get to cater to wide spectrum of customers.   The digital team is always on their toes and ensures constant presence on social media platforms and tracking various activities on our E-Commerce platform.

Sarees, Sarees & More Sarees & Lehengas too!

In the last leg of our tour, we reached the warehouse of Triveni which is huge in absolute terms and stocks and delivers a huge number of sarees on a pan India level. Mr Vineet Agarwal who manages this humongous warehouse told us that for the first time tax has come on sarees with 5% GST for which we had to do put in place huge logistics but we have not passed it to the end consumer.

We were shown the raw material, laces, sequins, decorations in hordes which are used by the design team. For the first time, we came to know that what a humongous effort it is to make one saree! From here we moved to the place which looked like a sea of sarees but, it was most organized warehouse I had ever been to. Mr  Agarwal who manages it all delightfully shared his management techniques which include several quality checks to deliver that perfect saree.

The Triveni team comprises of Designers from NIFT who churn out designs and designs to suit every palette.  Shalini Raj who is a chief designer, also a drape expert was quite a delight, she showed us her drawing book which had many interesting designs and explained to us how design team works. The most interesting part was all ladies enjoying themselves in saree draping workshop with Vitika, Priya, Yashi and Shalini (Triveni Team).

The brain behind the strong social and digital media presence  Vitika Mehta made a comprehensive presentation on Digital activities of Triveni.

No wonder, I termed Triveni as “Organically grown Corporate”.

Triveni needs just that push and initiative on the part of Government to be a shining star of “Make In India” campaign.

Hope PM Narendra Modi is listening…oops reading!! 

Top Pics: Beauty & Grace personified Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur

“Ultimate Saree” – the Benarasi Saree!

“Every mother has a dream to gift at least one Benarasi saree to her daughter in marriage,” – Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi.

Indeed every mother dreams of dressing her daughter in Benarasi Saree, especially in North India and gift her some on her special occasion. I too think of doing so…gifting one on my daughter’s marriage, owing to its cult status – the gorgeous Benarasi Saree, like my mother who gifted me many on my marriage. I love Benarasi Sarees and like to wear on special occasions like marriages, engagements etc. Being from North India, my love for Benarasi sarees is unquestionable.

I recollect my eldest Bua (Father’s Sister – Mrs. Sarojini Chandra) having one beautiful, hand woven, heritage Benarasi Saree in deep Purple colour with Silver Motifs all over (jaal) and intricate border. Bua looked beautiful in that Saree. As a child, I could not tell her then, but today, I regret not asking her for that Saree, I know she would have happily given me and I would have been the proud owner of that heritage piece in silk!

Benarasi Saree is not just a saree, but a prized possession for any women who know its worth. In North India, brides wore Red & Gold Benarsi Saree for Jaimaal and Yellow & Gold for Saptpadi (Pheras) and Benarasi Lehengas for Sangeet etc. So it was Benarasi weave all through. These sarees’ special characteristics are Mughal inspired designs such as intricate intertwining floral and foliate motifs, kalga and bel, a string of upright leaves called jhallar at the outer, edge of border is a characteristic of these sarees. Other features are gold work, compact weaving, figures with small details, metallic visual effects, pallus, jal (a net like a pattern), and mina work.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee, one of the master weavers of India, makes the world of Indian Brides truly spectacular, by the very look of it, you can make out that she is “Sabyasachi Bride”. He has dressed innumerable brides in Benarasi Sarees and Lehenga Chunrees from across the communities, caste and creed. The thread of Benarasi Saree unites all Indian brides who want to dress in their Benarasi Lehenga, irrespective and what if, it is by master creator – Sabyasachi.

And this time as well, with his ‘Banarasi Bride’ collection, he’s done a fabulous job. Intricate designs of rich hues of Banarasi fabric teamed up with elegantly designed blouses made his collection just too good for the eyes to behold! The sea-green Banarasi bridal lehengas and sarees of his that were displayed at the Amazon India Fashion Week won quite a lot of admiration and applause.

Ralph Fitch (1583–91) describes Banaras as a thriving sector of the cotton textile industry. The earliest mention of the brocade and Zari textiles of Banaras is found in the 19th century. With the migration of silk weavers from Gujarat during the famine of 1603, it is likely that silk brocade weaving started in Banaras in the seventeenth century and developed in excellence during the 18th and 19th century. During the Mughal period, around 14th century, the weaving of brocades with intricate designs using gold and silver threads became the speciality of Banaras.

This way we see, Gujarat has Benaras connection!

Now we have the same intricate weave of Benaras brought to you by Surat based Triveni Ethnics, known for their gorgeous and vast collection of sarees. Incidentally, it is worth noting, Benarasi Saree’s pricing is prohibitive sometimes owing to various factors thus making affordability an issue. So if you want to have a collection of Benarasis in your wardrobe on a budget, take your pick from an awesome collection of Triveni’s – Shatika –  Banarsees made in Art Silk collection with beautiful traditional motifs, designs,  and styles in bright colours with Golden Zari borders.

Each saree is complemented with matching woven/brocaded blouse piece. The saree in zari brocade and in bright colours is a brilliant collection to choose from. You can order these online and get your Sarees delivered at your doorsteps.

Some elite ones preferred Zardozi over Benarasi but nothing beyond that. Times changed, so did the Bridal outfits, courtesy Bollywood brides who wore designer Lehengas, experimenting in different shades and trendy embroidery.

Lehengas became heavier by the day, heavier the lehenga, happier the bride.

So if you are planning to visit Banaras (read: Varanasi) , don’t forget to pick a beautiful Benarasi Saree.

 

Triveni Sarees, the Madhubani paintings Canvas!

If you have ever envied the look ethnic look of beautiful actresses Shabana Azmi or  Vidya Balan in their exquisite Handloom Sarees, big bindis, and heritage jewels…

 …Go for Triveni Sarees Madhubani collection to get the look! Now it’s your time to turn them green with envy!!

The latest offering from Triveni Stable is of Sarees based on beautiful Mithila imprints of Bihar, better known as – The Madhubani paintings.  Triveni’s exclusive collection in super soft blended cotton with delightful Madhubani designs is around to steal the limelight.

The effeminate saree collection is ideal for formal wear collection which is complemented with beautiful Art Silk borders and beautifully complementing blouse pieces. Sarees really look beautiful and flawless to adorn to get that classy look, which was possible only with steeply priced Handloom Sarees.

But this collection by Triveni is the answer to that which comes at highly affordable prices. Ladies, if you are going to be part of any Seminar, Conference, Workshop or any other official function, Madhubani Sarees are the best bet. These will surely give you the look of the likes of Shabana Azmi, Ila Arun or even Vidya Balan which you have always envied.

Madhubani – Mithila Painting (also called Madhubani art or Mithila painting) is practiced in the Mithila region of India and Nepal. Painting is done with fingers, twigs, brushes, nib-pens, and matchsticks, using natural dyes and pigments, and is characterized by eye-catching geometrical patterns. There is ritual content for particular occasions, such as birth or marriage, and festivals, such as Holi, Surya Shakti, Kali Puja, Upanayana, Durga Puja.

Madhubani painting/Mithila painting was traditionally created by the women of the Brahman, Dusadh and Kayastha communities in Mithila region in India. It originated from Mithila region and Madhubani district of Bihar became the major export center of these paintings, hence, it is popularly called Mithila painting or Madhubani painting.  This painting as a form of wall art was practiced widely throughout the region; the more recent development of painting on paper and canvas mainly originated among the villages around Madhubani, and it is these latter developments led to the name Madhubani art being used alongside the name “Mithila Painting.

The painting was traditionally done on freshly plastered mud walls and floors of huts, but now they are also done on cloth, hand-made paper, and canvas. Madhubani paintings are made from the paste of powdered rice. Madhubani painting has remained confined to a compact geographical area and the skills have been passed on through centuries, the content and the style have largely remained the same. And that is the reason for Madhubani painting being accorded the coveted GI (Geographical Indication) status. Madhubani paintings also use two-dimensional imagery, and the colors used are derived from plants. Ochre and lampblack are also used for reddish brown and black respectively.

Madhubani paintings mostly depict the men & its association with nature and the scenes & deity from the ancient epics. Natural objects like the sun, the moon, and religious plants like tulsi are also widely painted, along with scenes from the royal court and social events like weddings. Generally, no space is left empty; the gaps are filled by paintings of flowers, animals, birds, and even geometric designs. Traditionally, the painting was one of the skills that were passed down from generation to generation in the families of the Mithila Region, mainly by women. It is still practiced and kept alive in the institutions spread across Mithila region. Kalakriti in Darbhanga, Vaidehi in Madhubani and Gram Vikas Parishad in Ranti are some of the major centers of Madhubani painting which has kept this ancient art form alive.

 

Lehenga Sarees, ruling the roost this marriage season!

Lehenga style saree or Lehenga Saree as it is famously known, is not a new phenomenon as it is made out to be. Women in South India always worn it in South Silk, Cotton Ikats or Kanjiveram Silks but it came into limelight with Deepika Padukone wearing it on screen in movie Chennai Express. All of us loved her simple demeanor in vibrant coloured, flowy fabrics, intricate gold borders and heavy Gold Pallu lehenga sarees which made Deepika look gorgeous, nonetheless girl next door too!

Deepika Padukone in beautiful Lehenga Sarees in Chennai Express

Then we watched Alia Bhatt wearing those in popular Bollywood movie – Two States, where she looked absolutely stunning in those lehenga sarees.

So what are these lehenga sarees?  Lehenga sarees are an aesthetic blend of the traditional saree and a lehenga choli where saree is normally 4.5 meters long. To wear one, unlike a sari, one doesn’t have to form pleats but may simply ‘tuck and drape’. Like that of a traditional saree, the lehenga style saree is worn over a petticoat (inskirt, pavadai in the south, and shaya in eastern India), along with a designer blouse called the choli.

Many designers like Manish Malhotra, Tarun Tahiliani and Sabyasachi Mukherjee have done some exquisite collections of lehenga saree which have high style quotient and dollops of traditional inputs. World over brides are loving their Lehenga Sarees…heavy embroideries, free-flowing fabrics and beautiful cuts make these every bride’s dream.

Bride in Sabyasachi Lehenga

It will not be a misnomer to say that lehenga sarees present beautiful amalgamation of comfort and style. Today’s youngsters who don’t want to look aunties in a saree and over dressed in a lehenga, want to sport fusion of the two. They want to dress without any encumbrances, without compromising on style quotient and lehenga sarees are just an answer to that. The easy-to-wear option of the garment tells the ladies just to slip into it and be ready in minutes. Stitched as a long flared skirt with a zip at the side, it is made to the measurements of the wearer. The ensemble needs to be slipped in, then the wearer can fasten the zipper and drape the pallu over the shoulders. This is an outfit for ladies who are not comfortable with usual draping and pleating that the regular saree demands.

Designer lehenga sarees may not be easy on pocket as these come with hefty designer price tags and if you want value for money pricing with designer inputs, choose from the gorgeous collection of triveniethnics.com. You can choose from their wide range of lehenga sarees suitable for any occasion. The lehenga saree in question here is getting beautiful contrast owning to use of colours: Electric Blue & Dazzling Blue with sequins all over. This lehenga saree stands out from the usual reds and peaches, blues & greens. The golden lace at the border adds jazz to the look.  Teamed with Art Silk blouse with white hexagonal net lehenga has gracious falls. It can be complimented with light traditional gold jewellery to enhance the look with swag!

Speaking on lehenga saree collection, Mr. Arvind Saraf, Director,  TriveniEthnics said, “Lehenga Saree is in trend from last five years but it gained momentum with Deepika wearing it in Chennai Express. It is a fusion of lehenga, owing to its cuts & shape, with drape of a saree. For a wedding, saree may look casual and lehenga too traditional, so we at Triveni made it more occasion oriented with ease of wearing & carrying attached to it.”

He adds, “Lehenga saree is simplified lehenga with saree like dupatta and a designer choli to boot, the look is very close to half-half saree as worn in South India. From last one year art-silks and brocade lehengas have become very popular with embroideries, works, prints and borders which gives them a rich look.”

Speaking on the innovations done keeping the tastes of trendy, yet traditional youngsters in mind, Saraf says, “ Few years ago our lehengas had heavy embroideries but now we have moved to soft prints in pastel colours providing heavy borders to lehenga, complimenting it with beautiful saree and designer choli which have become quite popular with youngsters. Moreover these are very easy to carry unlike saree which youngsters sometimes find quite cumbersome to manage.”

On Triveni’s lehenga Saree collection, Saraf says, “Bollywood has raised the fashion aspirations of Indian women. Keeping that in mind, our lehengas too have fair amount of embroidery catering to North Indian tastes.  Earlier it was primarily occasion wear but now it is has become very popular for Mehendis and Sangeets. These have become pan India phenomenon with any women sitting in remotest part of India having  them and flaunting them.”

Beautiful world of Triveni Lehenga Sarees

Various rich and exquisite embellishments are used on lehenga style sarees patterns, which include silver embroidery, golden embroidery, metal beads, real pearls, wood beads, glass beads, mirror work, lace work, Kundan, sequins, glittering stones, zardozi, etc. Mostly rich fabrics like silk, georgette, brasso, brocade, chiffon, crepe, etc., are used in the making of a lehenga style saree.

I think Lehenga Saree would be toast of this marriage season, particularly for mehendi & sangeet!

So what are you thinking, order one from Triveni Ethnics for Mere hathon mein nau nau choodiyan hain…

 

 

 

Bachpan wali woh Diwali…Aaj Kal ki yeh Diwali!

Day started with receiving Diwali wishes on Whatapp since early morning, followed by early cooking, watching Rangoli – Diwali Special on DD National, house cleaning and preparation for the evening pooja.  But…I did not forget to listen to PM Narendra Modi’s Mann –Ki- Baat on radio which was based on Diwali and Festivities surrounding it! I can safely say it was the Best Diwali described ever!!  He expressed Diwali’s significance in a very unique way; he dedicated this Diwali to Soldiers of the country that guards our borders while we celebrate.

 This year it was a low-key Diwali for Vaghela house-hold as my father in law moved on his eternal journey who immensely loved Diwali followed by Gujarati New Year which was a big celebration in Vaghela House hold with patriarch “Pappa”  and “Dada” who took great interest in all the celebrations.  We all miss his presence this Diwali!! He will always be missed!!!

 Daughter Tanya is here from hostel joined with her friend Dhruvi which brought lot of joy and festivities to the festival.  Festivities started with Dhanteras Pujan at office where like one big happy family we joined hands to celebrate, there was lighting, finery, jewellery, traditional dress, puja, mithai, gifting, receiving, family gathering and what not…followed by Dhanteras Puja at home. Like all years, this year’s Diwali is also big on Laxmi Puja which I would be performing in special Temple Border Kanjeevaram saree received from www.triveniethnics.com for Laxmi Pujan. Thanks Triveni for making festivities even more special…

Saree courtesy: Triveni Ethnics

 This Diwali was made even more special by fond memories of Diwali celebrations in our childhood by one of the most revered poet by writer & poet Gulzar which I am sharing with you below. What a beautiful expression through –  बचपन वाली वो दिवाली.

हफ्तों पहले से साफ़-सफाई में जुट जाते हैं, चूने के कनिस्तर में थोड़ी नील मिलाते हैं,

अलमारी खिसका खोयी चीज़ वापस  पाते हैं, दोछत्ती का कबाड़ बेच कुछ पैसे कमाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं  ….

दौड़-भाग के घर का हर सामान लाते हैं, चवन्नी -अठन्नी  पटाखों के लिए बचाते हैं

सजी बाज़ार की रौनक देखने जाते हैं, सिर्फ दाम पूछने के लिए चीजों को उठाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं ….

बिजली की झालर छत से लटकाते हैं, कुछ में मास्टर  बल्ब भी  लगाते हैं

टेस्टर लिए पूरे इलेक्ट्रीशियन बन जाते हैं, दो-चार बिजली के झटके भी  खाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं ….

दूर थोक की दुकान से पटाखे लाते है, मुर्गा ब्रांड हर पैकेट में खोजते जाते है

दो दिन तक उन्हें छत की धूप में सुखाते हैं, बार-बार बस गिनते जाते है, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं ….

धनतेरस के दिन कटोरदान लाते है, छत के जंगले से कंडील लटकाते हैं

मिठाई के ऊपर लगे काजू-बादाम खाते हैं, प्रसाद की  थाली   पड़ोस में  देने जाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं ….

माँ से खील में से  धान बिनवाते हैं , खांड  के खिलोने के साथ उसे जमके खाते है

अन्नकूट के लिए सब्जियों का ढेर लगाते है, भैया-दूज के दिन दीदी से आशीर्वाद पाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं ….

दिवाली बीत जाने पे दुखी हो जाते हैं , कुछ न फूटे पटाखों का बारूद जलाते हैं

घर की छत पे दगे हुए राकेट पाते हैं , बुझे दीयों को मुंडेर से हटाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं ….

बूढ़े माँ-बाप का एकाकीपन मिटाते हैं, वहीँ पुरानी रौनक फिर से लाते हैं

सामान  से नहीं ,समय देकर सम्मान  जताते हैं, उनके पुराने सुने किस्से फिर से सुनते जाते हैं, चलो इस दफ़े दिवाली घर पे मनाते हैं …

Best tribute to our bachpan ki diwali!

Diwali has always been my favourite festival. I start preparing for the festival at least one month in advance with shopping, scouting for gifting ideas, decorations, diya making & buying etc. Diwali brings immense joy to me personally. Entire year I wait for Diwali as it is a great social, religious, religious and festivities oriented festival, I love everything around Diwali…weather also take a turn for the better! Not only this, it is the time of the year when I like to introspect about the year gone by and prepare for the future dreams…wish dreams were horses. No Diwali goes without remembering DIWALI we use to celebrate at our home town Gwalior amidst battery of family members, buas, cha-chas, dadi-dada, bhaiyya, bhabhis, didis…everybody. For female members it was kitchen time all five days whereas we children enjoyed festivities with new dresses, sweets, delicacies, crackers, rangoli…to top it all outstation visits in Diwali vacation.

You can watch PM Narendra Modi’s Manni-ki-Baat here!

Diwali is big Puja time particularly Laxmi Pujan…which I do with lot of enthusiasm and fervour as ever.

Wish all my readers a very happy Diwali & Prosperous New Year!!

 

 

Triveni’s Sentorini -2 drum rolls festive season!

Be a Senorita in Triveni’s Sentorini -2 this festive season…

Surat based Triveni’s latest launch Sentorini-2 breezes in with unmatchable royalty and festive fervour providing new vitality and brightness to the collection. Thus declaring the onset of festival season and celebrations thereon. As the season of jubilations approach, the mood sets for festive shopping, fun and explorations.   Colorful rich sarees in charming prints, traditional outlay and latest surface works from the collection are ready to establish any woman as an ethnic diva.

The bright palette of the collection comprises of Yellows, Oranges and Pinks in combination with Blues, Greens and Whites and to complete the look are printed base of Bandhni and Leheriya impressions. The occasional patch work of stone and embroidered laces add dazzle to the saree. Foil work, appliqué work, patch work on net fabric, gota and cut work on the borders of the saree provides it a regal look.

Blouses are of rich brocades and viscose whereas Chunri print, net, Bhagalpuri printed fabric gives the collection a royal appeal. All these inputs enable providing saree a comfortable drape. Readymade laces and embroidered nets are a distinct feature of the blouses adding richness to the look.

You can complement the look with the Kundan jewellery. Heavy but minimalist jewellery shall hit the perfect ten! Well, guess what may just explode as a latest ethnic trend . . . try some Temple jewellery! Let the hair loose, spirits soar and mind refresh as we enter the festive season in the latter half of 2016.

You can order your Sentorini – 2 from www.triveniethnics.com. But not before catching the look on my blog.