An enchanting collection of rare and royal Sarees—showcasing the rich heritage of Indian tradition and craftsmanship—is currently on display at the “Silk Expo” exhibition being held in Bhopal. Hosted at the Dussehra Maidan in Bittan Market, this exhibition features exclusive collections from over 100 weavers and designers hailing from across the country. The exhibition will remain open to the general public daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM until April 12.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Minister Krishna Gaur. A particular highlight of the exhibition is the traditional Panetar Garchola Saree from the Kutch region of Gujarat. Adorned with traditional motifs such as Gajraj (elephants), deer, peacocks, and royal patterns, this Saree is revered as a symbol of Indian culture and royal tradition.
According to Bhola Pradhan, an experienced artisan from Kutch, it takes a highly experienced artisan anywhere from 7 to 10 days to craft this Saree. Handloom-woven on pure Mulberry silk, this Saree is so durable that it can be preserved and cherished for generations. Once prepared using natural dyes, it can be re-dyed in desired colors up to three times. Regarded as a cultural icon of Gujarat, this Saree is traditionally worn during weddings and family festivities.
The exhibition also features a special collection of the renowned Kanjeevaram Sarees from South India. Brought by representatives of the Sri Lakshmi Society Silk from Bengaluru, these Sarees feature intricate work crafted using pure Zari (gold/silver thread).
It takes a single artisan approximately three months to complete the creation of one Kanjeevaram Saree. Many of the Sarees feature intricate weaving crafted from gold and silver threads; consequently, their price is determined by the complexity of the workmanship and the uniqueness of the design.
Organizer Ashish Gupta stated that, alongside silk and cotton Sarees, the exhibition offers a captivating collection of designer dresses, as well as Banarasi, Patola, and Kanjeevaram sarees. Furthermore, a diverse range of ethnic wear, silk and cotton dress materials, Punjabi cotton suits, sarees, and bedsheets is also on display.
With the summer season in mind, the cotton materials sourced from Jaipur are proving to be a major attraction for visitors. Presented by Mohammed Shoheb, this fine ‘Mal’ cotton fabric is dyed using natural vegetable colors and crafted using the traditional block-printing technique—a style widely regarded as exceptionally comfortable for summer wear.
Additionally, the exhibition features cushion covers, bed-sheets, wall hangings, bags, and table runners adorned with Aari, patchwork, and Gota Patti embroidery—all exquisitely crafted by Ruhan from Kutch. Meanwhile, Vijay Chaudhary, hailing from Karnataka, has brought a special collection of Sarees featuring Rajwadi designs, crafted from Mysore’s unique Mushroom Modal Silk; creating each of these masterpieces requires the dedicated effort of two artisans over a period of approximately four months.
Special discounts are being offered to customers making purchases at the exhibition, a factor that has generated considerable excitement among the women of the city regarding this event.
