Handloom in Benares

Posted on by

​​
Only a few handlooms are operational and it’s a dying tradition. Weavers are paid a pittance and the younger generation is moving to other professions, some even becoming cart pullers and porters. 

I visited a presidential award winning weaver and since I am self-taught, I look forward to learning more about this dying art. I will be working closely with him to create my own customised handloom textile that will go into making an exclusive Anand Prakash product with a touch of Benares.

Ghats of Benares

Posted on by

IMG_0598

This is where I start my journey through the by-lanes of Benares overlooking the ghats.

IMG_0568

While exploring the old city of Benares, I came across Aakash, one of four brothers running Bana Lassi. Just nineteen months old, this place is cosy, with good seating and had many forms of art across its walls.
How did he start: In today’s digital world, his earlier business of books was not doing well therefore he was looking out to do something else and that’s how this place came to be.
The name Bana Lassi: Japanese pronounce ‘R’ as ‘L’ therefore Banarasi became ‘Bana Lassi’

IMG_0569

In Benares you must have one of these gamcha’s around your neck. I got one.

IMG_0600

Goodbye Benares, I take back a bag full of memories, inspiration and spiritual fulfilment. I will be back to explore and learn more from this timeless city.

Sarnath

Posted on by

IMG_0436

Stupa at Sarnath from time immemorial. Tranquil!

IMG_0577

Patterns on the Sarnath Stupa. On my travels, I have captured many of them from historical sites across this beautiful and inspirational country called India. A few of them have gone on to adorn our pieces of art.