New Delhi:
Fabrics play a vital role in the ceremonies that mark every stage of religious, cultural and social life in India. Jasleen Dhamija, renowned textile expert and editor of 'Sacred Textiles of India', gives a fascinating overview of the significance of fabric through time in the new Marg publication.
Designer Wendell Rodricks writes about the textile heritage of Goa and the cult of Shantadurga Goddess. "Shantadurga comes to Goa in her peaceful avatar and she appears in people's dreams and asks them for saris and other gifts," says Wendell.
Textile expert Paola Manfredi narrates the story behind the simple and stunning Kantha of Bengal which is meant to bring good luck to a bride and protect new born babies.
Other articles in the book illustrate the Islamic and Buddhist textiles of Ladakh, the ritual garments of the Parsi Zoroastrians and a chapter is also dedicated to the various fabrics imported from India which are indispensable in the ceremonies of the Kalabari of Nigeria. This range of unusual themes presented by textile experts and designers provide a wonderful insight into India's unique textile traditions.