Heritage meets contemporary in the latest series of Kanjeevaram saris by Advaya from the House of Angadi

Textile engineer and designer K Radharaman launched his new collection, ‘Advaya: Chapter 2’ from the House of Angadi recently. It is a range of classic, hand-woven Kanjeevaram and Kota saris, with intricate work weaved into rich silk fabrics. The humble sari has been in existence for over 5000 years and embodies elegance and feminine charm. The latest collection is an interesting intersection of heritage and contemporary innovation.

The statement pieces from the collection have been made from real gold zari fashioned onto luxurious fabrics of Kanjeevaram and Kota, with each sari telling its own story, replete with symbolism in its motifs, borders and weaves. The diversity of designs make the saris a perfect fit for either a wedding, a cocktail party, or the red carpet.

Upasna is made of soft, Kota silk fabric which renders the outfit a flowy drape. The sari is scattered with gold motifs, and the various shades of pink and nude accentuate very well, an Indian skin tone, making it an ideal choice for a daytime wedding event. It can be paired with a corset belt and a statement ring, to achieve a traditional yet modern look.

Dhriti is a combination of lustrous pink, cream and gold fabric which has been crafted with unique and delicate brocade designs in each section, using the rare Korvai technique. An otherwise traditional look, when paired with a contrasting-coloured blazer, could seamlessly fit as a creative choice for a cocktail event.

K. Radharaman is one of the pioneers of using Linen in saris and introducing the fabric in a Kanjeevaram sari. A manifestation of this unique concept is Leena, a Kanjeevaram sari with Linen and Silk Organza, with shimmering gold zari work. The sheer use of rich fabrics coupled with a modern looking jacket makes it a perfect outfit for the red carpet.

The simplicity of an Organza Kanjeevaram sari in white and gold colours is complemented with an intricate yet subtle zari work on the body, and an embellishment of the Kashmiri Paisley or ‘Ambi’ motif. The full-sleved, white shirt as a blouse, together with a simplistic drape serves as a go-to outfit for an intimate gathering or a party.

A two-tone red and pink silk sari, Kamya is a contemporary take on ‘Vanashingaram’ (meaning Beauty of the Forest), with nature as its muse. Mystical creatures and foliage are intricately weaved with pure gold, rendering a classy and a glamourous look to the user.

You could shop this collection from Angadi Heritage and Angadi Galleria in Bangalore.