Nita Ambani, Founder & Chairperson Reliance Foundation, has been very closely
involved through the years in promoting Indian art and culture. Artists Ramji and
Mohammed Haroon showcased Banarasi weaving at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural
Centre in Mumbai. At the Swadesh exhibition, artists who are preserving India’s valuable
culture and heritage are able to connect directly with visitors, who in turn witness a sublime
experience observing the artists live in action. Recently, Ambani met Swadesh artists,
including Ramji and Mohammed Haroon, deeply appreciating their talent and
service to arts.
The video of this interaction of Ramji and Shri Mohammed Haroon with Nita
Ambani can be viewed can be viewed here.
The Banarasi brocade enjoys immense popularity and is used to craft a variety of apparel, ranging
from resplendent sarees to opulent dresses and even exquisite upholstery.
Banarasi weaves frequently feature nature-inspired themes such as flowers, foliage, and animals.
This textile, made of fine silk is adorned with pure gold and silver zari, featuring distinct motifs
inspired by the Indian and Persian design vocabulary. The interwoven floral and foliate motifs, such
as Kalga, Bel, Jaal, Koniya, Shikargah, and distinguish the famous Banaras saree.
Shri Ramji, 57, a resident of Sarai Mohana village near Varanasi, is a master artisan who took to
weaving as a child by watching his father weave. Nearly most of the households in his village of
25,000 people are involved in weaving. He has learnt everything there is about weaving Banarasi silk
and is on a mission to share with others to keep the art alive by uniting the weaver families and
ensuring that there is work for all. He recently trained 75 women. A Banarasi saree can take as long
as two months to weave, he says.
“Swadesh helped the world to see what it takes to weave a Banarasi saree. It seemed like our art
was hidden until now. With her presence, involvement and support, Nita Ambani is
championing our cause in ways that we cannot. With this kind of support, the younger generation is
also ready to associate with the art,” he says.
Mohammed Haroon, 62, was forced to take up weaving for earning an income when he was just
15 owing to the untimely passing of his father, but he took to it with great zeal. This resident of
Kaman Gadha in Varanasi soon learnt everything about weaving and can even set up a loom.
“At Swadesh, many people appreciated our skills because of the art. The recognition that artists are
getting at Swadesh because of their association with the initiative will greatly help the art forms and
bring new artisans to the field,” he says.
