ETHNICITY NATIONAL
NEW DELHI, INDIA
By IFAB MEDIA - NEWS BUREAU - November 10, 2023 | 109 4 minutes read
Divani, the heritage heirloom brand founded by Founder & Creative Director -Sanya Dhir in the year 2013 marked a significant milestone on October 28th as it celebrated a decade of preserving the forgone art of “Zardozi”. The event, hosted at New Delhi’s Bikaner House, was a commemoration of Divani’s commitment to reviving the ancient, authentic, and handcrafted “Zardozi", an intricate form of hand embroidery.
The evening's festivities began with a specially curated installation that took guests on a visual journey through the Divani brand's history. This installation was a tribute to the timeless artistry of “zardozi” and its place in the rich tapestry of Indian heritage.
The installation, titled "TRUNKS LOST IN TIME," paid an ode to the craft, culture, couture and material memories lost in time and nostalgia buried in the sands of life. All woven together with the delicate threads of "Zardozi," - their legacy.
This initiative by Divani was a heartfelt tribute to the love poured into preserving the richness of Indian arts and heritage, reverberating on a symphony of craft, culture, and tradition. Standing tall as the proud custodians of authentic zardozi and timeless heritage couture, it was nothing but a handcrafted dream brought to life. In the delicate interplay of needle and thread, Divani wove tales of tradition, culture, and artistry that transcended time. Each meticulously crafted piece was a testament to the skilled hands and unwavering passion of their artisans.
Speaking on the occasion Sanya Dhir adds “The Zardoz Project” is not just about fashion; it's about storytelling through threads and textures. It's a journey into the soul of our heritage, a celebration of the artisans who breathe life into each creation. This project is an ode to timeless elegance, a commitment to preserving our cultural legacy, and an invitation to take part in the magic of Indian artistry.'"
The evening transitioned to a delightful culinary experience -where the guests immersed themselves in seasonal favourites from the ghar and bazaar of Lucknow , a reminder of the textures and aromas of the nashtedan, chaat ki dukan and the royal dastarkhwan curated by Chef Taiyaba, accompanied by the soul-stirring melodies of Sarangi music. The night was brought to life by the captivating performances led by Manjari Chaturvedi. It was a mesmerising showcase of the lost Indian art forms, storytelling, and the enchanting magic they hold within.
The curtain-raiser event was a true testament to Divani's enduring dedication to zardozi and the cultural heritage of India. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in Divani's journey, promising more years of preserving the legacy of zardozi and embracing the beauty of Hindustani art and culture.