Nita Ambani’s commitment to uplifting Indian artistry and craftsmanship on a global stage has been expressed on multiple occasions. As founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, she recently received the Massachusetts Governor’s Citation in Boston for her philanthropic efforts.
The business tycoon received the honour from the Governor of Massachusetts wearing a handwoven Shikargah Banarasi sari, featuring the intricate kadwa weaving technique and traditional konya design.
Taking to social media, the Instagram handle of Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre shared further insights: “Our Founder Chairperson Mrs Nita Ambani was conferred with the prestigious Governor’s Citation by the Hon’ble Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts, recognizing her as a visionary leader, compassionate philanthropist, and true global changemaker. The citation honours Mrs. Ambani’s lifelong dedication to transformative impact across education, healthcare, sports, arts, culture, and women’s empowerment – touching millions of lives in India and beyond,” read their caption.
Her accessories for the special occasion were an onion pink Pashmina shawl, a multi-layered pearl neckpiece, and diamond stud earrings.
What makes Shikargah unique?
Sagrika Dinkar Rai, founder and creative director of Warp ‘n Weft, shared that the word Shikar-gah is inspired by the animal hunt narrative. A classic theme from medieval times that gained popularity in India with an influx of Persian weavers from Central Asia and the Iranian plateau, Shikargah remains the epitome of weaves from Banaras.
“Rooted deep in mythology which enjoys commonalities between the South East and Central Asian cultures, Shikargah with majestic tigers, fiery lions, triumphal elephants, golden deers, quirky parrots and glorious peacocks took prominence on textiles in Banaras in most intricate techniques of embroidery-like weaving called ‘Kadhwa’,” shared Rai.
According to her, pure handloom Shikargahs easily take 6 to 9 months with two master craftsmen weaving in artistic synergy. “If it’s just animal figurines, it may take about 2 to 3 months with minakari—much less if there is absence of play of multiple-coloured yarns.”
Complimented with “ogival cartouches, leaf patterns, and floral arabesques,” Shikargah was perceived as the demonstration of princely power and their indulgence in animal hunting as a royal sport. According to Rai, brands focus on preserving the creativity and master craftsmanship of weaving pure silver zari Shikargah on pit looms, enhancing nuances like minakari detail in delicate enamel.