The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) in association with The Ministry of External Affairs, presented on the 29th October a unique initiative titled ‘Threads of Banaras’, as part of the First Ladies’ programme during the ongoing India-Africa Forum Summit III. The collection showcased was conceptualised by Ekaya and it resonated the magnificence of Indian crafts and its creative interpretations through indigenous Banarasi weaves.
This 25-minute show by Ekaya was in four segments and paid a tribute to the vivacity of Banaras and its ubiquitous weavers. The first segment began with traditional Banarasi saris, followed by ornate lehengas, salwar-kameez and Anarkalis reviving traditional splendour. The final segment showcased modern interpretations of global fashion with traditional weaves. The ambience created was perfect, with Vedic chants filling the air reminding of the holy city of Varanasi. or Benaras., which in its golden era was well known for its textiles and weaves and embroideries.
As Vedic chants filled the air, in keeping with the sentiment of the holy city of Banaras, it transported guests to a golden era of India’s richest textiles, weaves and embroideries.
Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI said, “The authentic treasure of Banarasi weaves and handlooms are priceless and deserve to be showcased at global platforms through either ramps or museums. This remains the biggest strength of our country and we need to tap its vast, untapped potential.”
The fashion show was attended by an august gathering of First Ladies from nations of the Indo-African Summit such as Burundi, Comoros, Angola, Eq. Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritius, Namibia, Senegal, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania & Uganda.
The event also witnessed the presence of many distinguished guests from India including . Ameena Jung, Sunita Kejriwal, Jaya Jaitely, Bharti Singh, Meenakshi Lekhi, MP, Lalitha Kumaramangalam, Neelam Pratap Rudy, Joram Rina Rijiju, Manju Singh, Punita Kumar Sinha to name a few.
Tags :FDCI, Ministry of External Affairs, India Africa Forum Summit III, Ekaya, Banaras
