It’s a delicious time-warp: large polka dots set against vibrant colours, arresting geometric patterns, paisley patterned saris …teamed with old-world three-quarter sleeved and high-neck blouses. The only thing missing is Asha Parekh or maybe Mumtaz. At Calantha Wardrobe, a charming boutique specialising in quaint saris, the journey to the 1960s is swift.
Calantha, which means lovely flower in Greek, was started by the Chitrakala Parishat, the state government-sponsored arts and culture institution, and NID student Roopa Pemmaraju who uses traditional Indian prints on fabrics that are specially woven by artisans in Doddaballapur, a small town near Bangalore known for traditional weaving. Thus each sari is one of its kind.
Calantha’s USP is its materials, ranging from soft cotton to textured crepe, flowing chiffon and silk, simple in design, embellished with patches of antique-style embroidery and brocade.
Pemmaraju creates her own prints, taking inspiration from nature, and from mid-19th century painting and architecture. She also has a line of casual wear which were showcased recently at the Australia Fashion Week and the Paris Ethical Fashion Show.
(Anita-Rao-Kashi is a Bangalore-based freelance writer)
