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The story of the origin of Banarasee saree weaving in Mubarakpur is an interesting one. It could arguably be the most prominent traditional attire worn by Indian women during the festive season, coupled with significant moments in her life. It is an art form that does not stand alone, but rather has been developed through confluences of varied techniques and patterns, as well as innovations in the production process. As an unstitched garment for women, it is unparalled in terms of richness of colour, texture and kinds of yarn.
We talked to 7 students from the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) regarding their college project on banarasee saree-making at the town of Mubarakpur in the Azamgarh district of Uttar Pradesh. They explored the lanes and bylanes of Mubarakpur and shot videos of the artisans engaged in brocade work. This is what one of the students has to say about the project that they undertook.
Your college project is regarding one of the most ancient art forms of India. Can you tell us what led you to choose Mubarakpur as the venue of your research?
We were a team of 7 members. It was a cluster visit organised by our college itself to the town of Mubarakpur, which is not a well-known place, but it holds a historical significance of Banarasi Saree Making (Jacquard Weaving). The project demanded us to come up with an AV (Audio/Visual) projecting Mubarakpur and its craft.
Tell us about the idea and inspiration behind your project.
We did not want to make a conventional documentary about the place; rather we wanted to create something very funky and eye-catching, with a rhythm and swag to it. So we decided to make it in two segments. The first one is an introductory overview of the place, whereas the other half contains the major details and processes behind the craft - similar to a conventional documentary film.
What might you have done differently had this not been a college project?
We did not want to make a conventional documentary film, even though the college demanded it. If this wasn’t a college project, I, being the editor of the AV, would have taken more liberties with the music in this film.
What kind of impact do you think your work would leave on the world?
A good film doesn’t always need to have an aesthetically pleasing subject to make an impact. I think my work would convey the right kind of emotions which can only be achieved if you genuinely believe in what you do.
What keeps you up at night?
I tend to overthink a lot.
What is your exam prep music playlist?
Pink Floyd’s High Hopes, Eddie Vedder, Hindi Deshbhakti Geet
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