A couple of months back, while on a visit to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, the new Textile Gallery left us speechless. And made us smile. Finally, a space to celebrate the countries rich and diverse weaving traditions. The research, the artful mounting of exhibits, the lighting and aesthetics — the entire exercise was a tribute to India. Among the crowds that thronged the gallery, it warmed our hearts immensely to note that there were many young visitors, curious to learn about the origins of our weaves and fabrics.

Cut to a few weeks back. We’re pretty sure that the weavers of Varanasi would have rejoiced on hearing the news. The Dr Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum’s initiative to promote the weaves of this ancient city was another much-needed shot in the arm for the country’s weavers in general. Along the way, both ideas also broke the stereotype of the idea of a museum for Mumbaikars. This should usher in larger things to come.