Kolkata experienced a two-day retail extravaganza on January 11 and 12, hosted by the Rotary Club of Calcutta Midtown at Kolkata Kettle. The exhibition celebrated the artisans of India, upholding India’s rich craftsmanship. The event also featured a fashion show showcasing the exquisite creations by eminent designer Bibi Russell. Reflecting on the significance of Indian craftsmen, Bibi said, ‘Without the craftsmen we are nothing, we will lose our culture and heritage’
Photos: Amit PramanikSupermodel Nayanika Chatterjee participated in the event, walking the ramp and turning heads with her grace and elegance. ‘I’m here to help Bibi, who does phenomenal work,’ said Nayanika to My Kolkata. Bibi, who is currently working with Bengal’s heritage handloom Dhaniakhali, stressed on the crucial need to champion the diverse artistry woven throughout the country
Bibi’s designs and take on sustainable fashion stole the show, and the designer herself looked ramp ready herself in an orange sari. Her funky specs and silver ‘kadas’ teamed with red bangles dropped pointers for anyone who wanted to slay in the six yards. Her camaraderie with the attendees is worth a mention
The fashion show saw Rotarian Rashmi Chaudhary walking the ramp too. Rashmi, who is the convenor of Kolkata Kettle, is also the brain behind the initiative. ‘This versatile event is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between traditional craftsmanship and modern fashion design,’ she shared
Samirr Doshi’s (above) cheerful demeanour along with his bandana and garland grabbed eyeballs, and so did Preeti Agarwal’s bright yellow sari. A heartwarming display of camaraderie between Nina Khanna and Shalini Agarwal (below) beautifully demonstrated the friendly spirit that binds the Rotarians together
The first day of the event also saw an engaging conversation between Mr. Om Prakash Prahladka from the Export Promotion Council for Handicraft; Odisha handicrafts exporter Amrita Sabat; and Yogesh Gupta, Convenor – Eastern Region, Past National Chairman EPCH. During the panel discussion, the three dignitaries spoke in depth about the handicraft industry