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Bollywood Dazzles on the Ganges: Ranveer Singh, Kriti Sanon Walk for Manish Malhotra in Varanasi

VARANASI: In a unique and dazzling event on Banarasi Saree Collection, Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh and Kriti Sanon turned heads as they walked the runway for celebrated designer Manish Malhotra on the banks of the holy Ganges River in Varanasi. Held on Sunday, April 14th, the special showcase transformed Namo Ghat into a magical fashion platform, bathed in the ethereal glow of the setting sun.

Manish Malhotra is a renowned Indian fashion designer known for two things: Bollywood and glamour.

Bollywood Fashion King: Malhotra started his career in costume design, dressing stars in iconic films like “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” and “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.” He’s credited with redefining Bollywood fashion and influencing how actors look on screen.

Luxury Couture: In 2005, Malhotra launched his own label, offering bridal wear, couture pieces, and menswear. His designs are known for their elegance, intricate detailing, and a touch of modern flair. He’s a go-to designer for Indian celebrities and brides.

The event, themed “Banarasi Saree: A Tapestry of Indian Culture & Craftsmen,” aimed to celebrate the rich heritage of Varanasi’s handloom industry and the artistry of its weavers. Singh and Sanon served as showstoppers, captivating the audience with their vibrant energy and grace. Singh donned a magnificent purple and gold brocade outfit, while Sanon exuded elegance in a yellow kurta-pyjama set.

The Allure of the Banarasi Saree: Woven Legacy of India
The Banarasi saree, hailing from the ancient city of Varanasi, is more than just clothing; it’s a timeless embodiment of Indian artistry and cultural heritage. Here’s what makes it so famous:

Exquisite Craftsmanship: Woven from pure silk threads, Banarasi sarees boast intricate designs and motifs. The use of Zari, a thread woven with gold or silver, adds a touch of opulence. Master weavers meticulously craft each saree, with some taking months to complete.

A Legacy of Design: The Mughal era left its mark on Banarasi sarees, with Indo-Persian influences evident in the elaborate patterns and borders (pallu). Floral designs, paisley motifs, and geometric patterns are just a few examples of the captivating artistry.

Symbol of Tradition: For centuries, Banarasi sarees have adorned women for special occasions like weddings and festivals. They are considered heirlooms, passed down through generations, adding a sentimental value to their beauty.

Uniqueness and Variety: No two sarees are exactly alike. The weaving technique, thread selection, and design elements all contribute to the individuality of each piece. This variety ensures there’s a Banarasi saree to suit every taste and occasion.

A Celebration of Culture: Owning a Banarasi saree is not just about fashion; it’s about supporting a centuries-old tradition and the skilled artisans who keep it alive. It’s a connection to India’s rich textile heritage.

The Banarasi saree is a masterpiece woven with silk, tradition, and cultural significance. Its allure lies in its timeless elegance, intricate craftsmanship, and the legacy it carries forward.

The open-air venue pulsed with the traditional sounds of dhols and temple bells, creating a truly immersive experience. Fireworks illuminated the night sky, further enhancing the spectacle. Videos of the event quickly went viral, showcasing the actors’ infectious enthusiasm and the breathtaking backdrop of Varanasi.

Ranbir Singh, known for his flamboyant fashion sense, reportedly called the experience “a million times better than walking in Mumbai’s 5-star banquet.” The event served not only as a celebration of fashion but also as a tribute to the artistry and cultural significance of the Banarasi saree.

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Chaitra Navratra Celebrations at Vaishno Devi Shrine Marked by Spiritual Splendor and Inclusivity

Katra, April 17- The 9-day long deeply revered Shat Chandi Maha Yagya organised by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) at the Holy Shrine during Chaitra Navratra for universal peace and prosperity concluded on a grand note with “Purna ahuthi” on the auspicious occasion of Ram navami.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board; Dr. Neelam Sareen, Board Member, Vikas Anand, SDM Bhawan,other officers and staff of the Shrine Board, besides pilgrims participated in Purna ahuti and other religious ceremonies performed amidst vedic mantras on the occasion. A group of pandits led by Padma Shri Prof. Vishwamurti Shastri, performed the Maha Yagya.

More than 3 Lakh devout pilgrims made their journey to the revered Shrine during the auspicious Chaitra Navratri. To ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all devotees visiting the Vaishno Devi Shrine regardless of their physical abilities, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has been continuing providing free pony, battery car service and assistance in darshans to Divyang pilgrims during Navratri as per directions of Sh. Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Lt.Governor, JK-UT who is also Chairman, SMVDSB.

Elaborate decorations with exquisite fresh flowers of varied varieties brought from various parts of the country and abroad, traditional motifs and ornate lighting captivated the hearts of devotees who thronged to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi ji during these Navratras. Artistically designed huge reception doors were also installed in the Bhawan area.

Besides, the Board had also made impressive arrangements for the pilgrims visiting the Holy Shrine including round the clock water and power supply all along the tracks and in the Bhawan Area, Sanitation and Sanitisation , Medicare and availability of special “fast related” food at the catering outlets of the Board. The Board also made arrangements for free food for the pilgrims at Tarakote Marg, Prasad Kendra at Sanjichhat, and Bhairon Ji. For the ease and comfort of pilgrims, facilities like battery operated vehicles, passenger ropeway and helicopter services were available through both online and offline modes. 

Other special features were bhajan and bhaint performances by the renowned artists such as Hansraj Raghuwanshi, Lakhwinder Wadali, Kapil Sharma, Akriti Kakkar, Sagar Bhatia, Roshan Prince besides budding students of SMVD Gurukul during morning and evening Atka Aarti during these Navratras. The live telecast of Atka Arti witnessed an unprecedented engagement from pilgrims worldwide who partake in the divine rituals from the comfort of their homes. As a special feature, Bhajan Sandhya was also organised by the Board twice a day for the pilgrims at the newly constructed Sheetla Bhawan at Adhkuwari and the same shall be a regular feature henceforth.

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Handicrafts & Handloom Deptt Kickstarts Exhibitions at Emporium Building & Zero Bridge

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 10: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, today inaugurated an exhibition at the Government Arts Emporium in Srinagar.

 The special exhibition, organized by the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir, aims to spotlight the remarkable craftsmanship of Padma Shri awardee Ghulam Nabi Dar and UT Level Awardee Riyaz Ahmad Khan, honoring their recent accolades.

Ghulam Nabi Dar, a renowned master craftsman from Srinagar, was recently bestowed with the Padma Shri for his exceptional contributions to wood carving, while Riyaz Ahmad Khan was recognized with the J&K UT Level Award for his exemplary service to the Paper Machie craft.

The opening reception attracted a large audience, with visitors relishing the artistic displays and interacting with the talented artists themselves. Showcases were masterpieces unmatched in their craftsmanship. Both awardees have garnered acclaim over the years, receiving recognition at both the state and national levels.

In his address to the audience, the Divisional Commissioner highlighted how the event celebrates the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the city, expressing delight at the turnout and stressing the importance of supporting local artists.

The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir has been committed to bringing art and crafts into open-air settings through its ‘Know Your Artisan’ initiative, following Srinagar’s acknowledgment as UNESCO’s Creative City in Craft and Folk Art.

The department also inaugurated a two-day exhibition cum sales event at Zero Bridge Rajbagh Srinagar from February 10th, 2024.

 The event organized by Assistant Director Handicrafts/Handloom Srinagar aims to support local artisans and raise awareness about the richness of the valley’s indigenous handicrafts. Enthusiastic participation was witnessed from 12 local artisans, who showcased a diverse range of handicraft products.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir reiterated the department’s commitment to providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their talents and boost sales.

 Such initiatives, he emphasized, play a crucial role in preserving the legacy of handicrafts and providing exposure and livelihood support to local artisans. 

The department plans to organize many more such exhibitions throughout the valley to connect artisans with both local and global markets.

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