It was two years ago, while on holiday in Benares that New Delhi-based Nishant Malhotra had an epiphany of sorts. The then financial services professional came across a number of weavers, including a national award winner, who wanted to quit the profession because of dwindling business. “I was a bit taken aback because I’ve seen the women in my family ordering Benarasis for all occasions. So I wondered, if there’s so much demand, why aren’t the weavers finding work,” he recalls.
Nishant initially commissioned the weavers to create saris for his family, and the business grew from there. That’s how his label Weaverstory was born. This weekend, Weaverstory will participate in a showcase at handwoven sari store, Mithila on Residency Road.
Apart from reviving the opulent weaves, Nishant’s focus is also to empower women. Women are taught to create tassels, which are then attached to the saris, dupattas and lehengas they produce. This particular feature is one of the factors that sets them apart. In addition to the bridal Tanchois and Kadhwa saris, the pop-up will show-case a range of light, daily-wear georgette and cotton pieces. “We’ve chosen earthy tones and kept it simple,” explains Nishant, adding that the collection will also include digitally-printed muga silk saris and Benarasis with bandhini work.
Rs.5,000 upwards. At Residency Road