The bustling city of Mumbai will play host to showcasing the rich textile tradition of Odisha at Baro Market’s 47-A, a design gallery nestled in the heart of Khotachi Wad. Richa Maheshwari, the founder of 'Boito', is all set to unveil her new collection that beautifully weaves together the rich tapestry of Odisha's indigenous textiles with a contemporary twist. This much-anticipated event promises to be a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of Odisha's textile heritage.
"I met Richa a few months ago and was mesmerised by the stories she told about the tribes of Odisha, and then enchanted by her photographs of people who came steeped in a history I knew so little about. Odisha is a land I have traveled a little in, and loved, and always despaired that the only news one ever gets about this beautiful state is of calamity. Richa’s research was a chance to change that image, and the opportunity to showcase the beautiful brand she was creating seemed like a dream for us. Nothing excites us more than when great contemporary design comes from old traditions and deep history. Boito is that."
Srila Chatterjee, the founder of Baro Market
Boito, which means 'boat' in Odia, draws its inspiration from the ancient maritime festival of 'Boito Bandana', a tribute to the intrepid Sadhabas - ancient Odia mariner merchants who embarked on voyages to distant lands, carrying with them the exquisite woven textiles that were the pride of Odisha. Through Boito, Richa Maheshwari endeavors to preserve the captivating stories woven into these textiles and honor the enduring legacy of Odisha's weaving communities.
The collection is a testament to conscientious luxury and has been meticulously handcrafted in India using heritage techniques that have been passed down through generations. Each piece of fabric tells a compelling tale, reflecting the distinct aesthetic and style of Odisha's remote weaving communities. Boito's mission goes beyond preserving these age-old crafts; it is a commitment to empowering and uplifting the communities that breathe life into these textiles, ensuring that their legacy thrives in today's fast-paced world.
Curated with a deep sense of cultural appreciation, the Boito showcase invites patrons to embark on a journey into a world brimming with myths, folklore, and exquisite craft techniques. Anshu Arora, the multidisciplinary design practitioner who has lent her creative vision to Boito, has meticulously designed garments that seamlessly blend the timeless patterns and motifs with a contemporary flair, offering urban audiences a glimpse into the slow-fashion revolution that Boito embodies.
For Richa Maheshwari, this endeavor is a poignant homecoming; a heartfelt tribute to the communities that welcomed her with warmth and shared their timeless textile-making traditions. Her vision for Boito is rooted in a desire to keep the beauty of Odisha's textile heritage alive and to provide a sustainable platform for artisans to flourish without compromising their unhurried way of life.
As the stage is set for the unveiling of Boito, it promises to be a captivating ode to Odisha's textile legacy, a celebration of resilience, and a testament to the enduring allure of tradition in a rapidly changing world. Join us as we set sail with Boito and immerse ourselves in the timeless elegance of Odisha's indigenous textiles.
Boito
Date: 1st-3rd December, 2023
Time: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Venue: 47 A, KhotachiWadi
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