Hyderabad, A discussion session titled ‘Vastra Veda – The Tales of Our Weavers’ was organized by Culture on Friday at Saptaparni in Banjara Hills. Designer and founder of the label Saurav Das emphasized the need for effective government policies to preserve and revive the heritage of handloom. The government should become a patron of handloom.

During the discussion with the moderator, Saurav Das stated that the saree is an integral part of Indian culture. Different regions of India have developed their own unique styles and weaving techniques for sarees. Highlighting the types and history of sarees, he mentioned that every state showcases its distinct saree style. Speaking about various aspects of handloom, he noted that compromises are being made today regarding the authenticity of handloom.

The Government Should Become the Patron of Handloom Art – Saurav Das

Saurav Das remarked that in the past, there was no compromise on craft tradition and quality. He pointed out that while royal families once acted as patrons of woven textiles, today there is a lack of such patronage. Citing examples of prominent figures like Maharani Indira Devi and Maharani Gayatri Devi, he urged the government to take on the role of a patron for handloom.

Speaking on the topic of GI tags, Saurav Das said that art should not be controlled in the era of globalization. It should flow like a river. He also suggested that the government should reconsider GST provisions on textiles. Addressing various questions, Saurav emphasized that the government should ensure fairness between handloom and powerloom. Additionally, the opinions of artists and designers should be considered for the revival or development of the handloom sector to systematically expand its reach.

The chairperson, in her welcome address, stated that this year’s executive theme of Culture is ‘Connect with Your Culture,’ with the primary objective of highlighting aspects of the country’s cultural identity. She mentioned that this year, their effort is to revive ancient folk arts, festivals, and traditions. In this context, the discussion session on ‘Vastra Veda’ was organized. She added that the event aims to celebrate the artistry of weavers and the timeless beauty of Indian handloom, where every thread and fiber weaves a story.

The event also aimed to discuss continuous efforts to honor and promote the craftsmanship and cultural heritage of handloom, ensuring that future generations become familiar with this rich legacy.

During the event, members of Culture walked the ramp in various types of sarees.

Vastra Veda

“Västra Veda” is a small village in Sweden, known for its historical church, Västra Veda Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The church features medieval frescoes and Romanesque architecture, reflecting its long-standing role in the region’s religious and cultural heritage. The surrounding area is characterized by scenic countryside, offering a glimpse into traditional Swedish rural life.

Saptaparni

Saptaparni, also known as the *Alstonia scholaris* tree, is a culturally and ecologically significant plant in India, often associated with traditional medicine and folklore. It derives its name from the Sanskrit words *sapta* (seven) and *parni* (leaves), referring to the whorl of seven leaves commonly found on its branches. In Hindu mythology, the tree is linked to rituals and is sometimes considered sacred, while its bark has been used in Ayurveda for treating various ailments.

Banjara Hills

Banjara Hills is an upscale neighborhood in Hyderabad, India, known for its luxurious residences, shopping centers, and vibrant nightlife. Historically, it was named after the Banjara (Lambadi) tribe, nomadic communities who once inhabited the area. Today, it is a prominent commercial and residential hub, featuring landmarks like the iconic Hyderabad Heart Hospital and the scenic Banjara Lake.

Hyderabad

Hyderabad is a historic city in southern India, founded in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it is home to iconic landmarks like the Charminar, a 16th-century mosque and monument, and Golconda Fort, a former diamond-trading center. Today, Hyderabad is a major tech hub, often called “Cyberabad,” while preserving its blend of Mughal and Telugu traditions.

Maharani Indira Devi

Maharani Indira Devi (1912–1995) was the queen consort of Cooch Behar, a princely state in British India, and a prominent socialite known for her elegance and modern outlook. She married Maharaja Jagaddipendra Narayan of Cooch Behar and later became an influential figure in post-independence India, blending royal tradition with contemporary influences. Her legacy is tied to the cultural and aristocratic history of Cooch Behar, as well as her role in redefining royal women’s public presence in mid-20th-century India.

Maharani Gayatri Devi

Maharani Gayatri Devi (1919–2009) was the third queen of Jaipur, renowned for her beauty, elegance, and progressive leadership. A prominent figure in Indian politics, she was elected to Parliament with a record margin and championed women’s education, founding the prestigious Maharani Gayatri Devi Girls’ Public School in Jaipur. As a member of Jaipur’s royal family, she played a key role in preserving Rajasthan’s cultural heritage while modernizing the region.

GI tags

“GI tags” refer to **Geographical Indication (GI) tags**, a form of intellectual property right that identifies products originating from a specific region, known for their unique quality, reputation, or characteristics tied to that location. Introduced globally under the WTO’s TRIPS Agreement, India adopted GI tags in 2003 to protect and promote regional goods like Darjeeling tea, Banarasi silk, and Nagpur oranges. These tags help preserve cultural heritage, support local economies, and prevent unauthorized use of regional product names.

GST

“GST” commonly refers to the **Goods and Services Tax**, a value-added tax implemented in many countries, including India, Canada, and Australia. Introduced in India in 2017, it replaced multiple indirect taxes to simplify the tax structure and boost economic growth. If you meant a cultural or historical site, please clarify, as “GST” may also stand for other terms (e.g., **Gyeongju Seokguram Temple** in South Korea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Buddhist statue and cave architecture).