This weekend, drop by an exhibition of Paithani sarees and accessories to relive the story of a sari, whose origins date back to 200 BC

The legend behind the Paithani sari goes that a humble weaver from Paithan in Maharashtra wanted to hand out a precious gift to his daughter on her wedding. With hardly any money to spare, he created a unique sari that was woven with his blessings. Thus, the elegant Mor (peacock) represented a wish for her marital happiness while the clusters of green leaves and flowering vines (Asawalli) prayed for her prosperity and fertility.


Shilpa Avhad in one of her Paithani creations

This heirloom sari, worn on weddings and favoured by the Peshwas, dates back to 200 BC during the Satvahana era. The fabric even found mention in the Rigveda and hasn't lost its mass appeal over centuries.

Fascinated by these stories but wary of the limited colours and designs, professional Shilpa Avhad started Rigveda Creations, her brand of Paithani fabrics, a decade ago. "I designed my bridal sari as I couldn't source the dark shade that I was looking for. That's when I decided to combine modern elements with traditional themes and experiment more with the pallu," she states.

At the current exhibition, one can choose from over 100 varieties of Paithani sarees in more than 30 colours, including peacock blue, green and kumkum red with elegant zari work. Also on sale are readymade short and long kurtas, salwar suits, mobile pouches and handbags, all made in the Paithani style.

Each sari takes between two months to two years to manufacture and each design is handwoven by artisans from Yeola village near Paithan who have been practicing this art through generations.

Till: March 6
At: Shop 10, Raghuleela Mall, Kandivali (West).
Call: 9819876903
Cost: Rs 5,500 to Rs 40,000