Pilitaxi pop-up brings artisanal Indian labels to Bengaluru for a festive edit

Festive shopping gets a travelling twist as Pilitaxi popup market arrives in Bengaluru this weekend. Curated by Kolkata-based entrepreneur Bijaya Dutta, the travelling pop-up brings together homegrown, sustainable and independent fashion and lifestyle brands from across India, turning the Bangalore International Centre into a two-day showcase of everything from artisanal clothing and jewellery to homegrown lifestyle finds.

“Pilitaxi’s festive edit is not simply a shopping event; it is a reflection of how Indian craftsmanship is evolving today. As curators, our intention has always been to create a platform where visitors can witness craft move beyond its traditional forms and discover how designers across the country are reimagining heritage for contemporary lifestyles. For Bengaluru, we have carefully curated a lineup of some of the most exciting craft-led brands from across India. What excites us most is the number of discoveries this edition offers. Several brands are visiting Bengaluru for the first time, allowing the city’s discerning audience to experience craft stories, regional techniques and design perspectives that are rarely brought together under one roof,” Bijaya shares.

Bengaluru has always been one of the most conscious and design-aware markets for Bijaya, with shoppers who appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship and the story behind what they buy. She has therefore curated this festive edit not around trends, but around makers, materials and meaningful design.

“This season, visitors can discover handwoven textiles and weaving traditions from Beng al through Bahi, Unallume, Rimil and Karmashrama — each interpreting heritage techniques in its own contemporary way. Baala brings handcrafted jewellery from Rajasthan, while Ethnic Andaz showcases intricate pieces made by skilled karigars in Kolkata. The Northeast finds representation through Level Lelen, which celebrates Mizo heritage through beautifully crafted jackets, textiles and accessories, many of which are being showcased in Bengaluru for the first time. Meanwhile, Okhai highlights the remarkable craft traditions of Mithapur, where artisans translate traditional skills into contemporary products suited to modern lifestyles. Fashion lovers can also explore Goa-based Raga & Co, whose collections draw from the region’s laid-back elegance and artisanal heritage. From Wayanad, Pacha brings handcrafted flowers and accessories made by local artisans, keeping traditional handmade practices alive through contemporary design,” she reveals.

Craft has always been at the heart of Pilitaxi’s curation, but what is most exciting today is not simply the preservation of traditional techniques, but how they are evolving through contemporary design.

This edition brings together a rich spectrum of handmade practices, from handloom weaving, jamdani and embroidery to textile craftsmanship, pottery, handcrafted décor, artisanal accessories and surface embellishment. Bijaya was particularly keen to showcase brands demonstrating how heritage crafts can remain relevant, desirable and functional for modern lifestyles.

“In the home and lifestyle space, Trove Craft showcases handcrafted objects and décor created in collaboration with artisans across India, highlighting how traditional skills can find new expression in contemporary homes. Strange Co. takes a similarly thoughtful approach to handmade living, celebrating craftsmanship through everyday objects. Neti Neti explores craft through a contemporary design language rooted in mindful making, while O Layla brings a handcrafted sensibility to moder n fashion and lifestyle products. Winglore represents another direction where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary aesthetics, creating products that remain rooted in heritage while being relevant to today’s lifestyles,” she tells us.

One of the greatest joys of curating Pilitaxi, according to Bijaya, is discovering brands before they become widely recognised. While established names often draw attention, she believes it is the smaller, emerging labels that often leave a lasting impression. They may not have large marketing budgets or an extensive retail presence, but they possess something far more valuable — authenticity, originality and a strong point of view.

“Bandish is a handcrafted accessories brand rooted in art, craft and storytelling. It creates unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that bring together weaving, embroidery, sculpting and upcycling as wearable works of art. The name Bandish means ‘composition,’ reflecting a harmonious coming together of different elements. For All Beauty (FAB) is a conscious beauty brand redefining everyday make-up through clean for mulations and sustainable design using carefully researched ingredients, housed in refillable bamboo packaging. Bahi is another label that deserves attention for its thoughtful approach to textiles and craftsmanship. Deeply rooted in Indian weaving traditions, the brand creates elegant pieces designed to be cherished for years rather than seasons,” she signs off.

August 21 & 22, 11 am to 8 pm. At Bangalore International Centre, Domlur

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