




The Woven Art of Baluchar: A Rare Baluchari Exhibition in Delhi
Delhi’s art aficionados are in for a visual treat as the Art Konsult gallery hosts The Woven Art of Baluchar, a captivating exhibition showcasing the luminous heritage of Baluchari saris. Rich panels of purple, dark blue, orange, and crimson adorn the walls, narrating stories from the 18th to early 20th centuries.
Curated by art connoisseur Siddhartha Tagore, who has collected Baluchari textiles over the past 15 years from private collectors, the exhibition features 30 rare pieces selected from his collection of 60 weaves. Among the highlights are depictions of steam-powered trains, European officers in leisurely conversation, and women mounted on horses, reflecting the playful yet intricate visual language of the Murshidabad weavers.
Baluchari: More than Just Saris
Traditionally consumed as saris, Baluchari textiles are known for their exceptionally long pallus and storytelling prowess. The exhibition extends the repertoire to include shawls and ceremonial clothing, demonstrating the versatility of this iconic handloom.
The heavily patterned weaves are marked by kalkas (paisleys), florals, trees, and fish, alongside narrative depictions of Bengal aristocracy and European lifestyles. Bishnupur Balucharis later incorporated mythological narratives, such as scenes from the Ramayana, as weavers adapted to changing design references over time.
Master Weavers and Their Legacy
A rare highlight includes two cream silk shawls with black kalka motifs, signed by the legendary weaver Dubraj Das, who passed away in 1903. Some saris in the exhibition also feature the weavers’ names woven in Bangla along the edges, an uncommon yet iconic practice that underscores the artistry of Baluchari weaving.
Tagore remarks, “The presence of weavers’ signatures and the narrative richness of these textiles make them not just garments but storytelling masterpieces. Baluchari’s legacy is a testament to the finesse and creativity of Bengal’s weavers.”
The exhibition offers visitors an immersive journey into the art, history, and cultural narratives of one of India’s most intricate textile traditions, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of heritage crafts.
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