Albeli Banjaran
Banjaran Beats, a pride so true
Handcrafted tales in every hue
Hello dear Fashion Connoisseurs! Welcome to Albeli Banjaran, where we celebrate the rich tapestry of tribal fashion, a vital part of our country’s cultural heritage.
Before we delve into the depth, I would like to wish you all Happy 10th National Handloom Day!!
The blog highlights the vibrant essence and unique artistry of indigenous communities with contemporary flair. Designed by the talented Megha Agarwal Megha (Founder and Designer Head ; Megha Ethnics- Banjaran), the collection features the timeless trends of block-printed textiles in Indian and Western styles. These designs not only embody artistic heritage but also endorse sustainable fashion, as they are crafted with vegetable dyes.
Our spotlight shines on Bagru, Rajasthan, known for its intricate block prints; ShrikalaHasti and Masulipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, renowned for their beautiful Kalamkari art; and Ajrak from Gujarat and Sindh, celebrated for its rich intricate patterns and unique dyeing techniques.
Join us in our journey as we explore these timeless trends and their eco-friendly elegance. So, it’s time to fill your mug with coffee, sit tight, sip in style and scroll down to immerse yourself in contemporary twists of traditional trends.
1. Kalamkari Couture- Artful adornments and attire
In this stunning ensemble, the model showcases a Kalamkari saree that tells a tale of tradition in style.
The saree is adorned with intricate floral prints, framed beautifully by a serene blue border. Each detail speaks of meticulous craftsmanship, especially the delicate floral tassels gracing the edge of the palla, swaying gracefully with every movement.
The blue belt pocket, embellished with applique motifs, adds functionality and aesthetics together to the traditional drape. Complementing this, she carries a Ajrakh bag over her shoulder, once again blending utility and style. Topping of her look, diva dons a Kalamkari cap with delicate embellishments, and accessorized with oxidized jewelry and a smart watch. Striped blouse is another attraction of the attire. This confluence of traditional and modern elements embodies the essence of the Indian modern woman.
Embracing this fashion means celebrating the rich heritage of Kalamkari while embracing sustainability and contemporary elegance. Each piece is a testament to the timeless art and the rhythm of culture, inviting everyone to wear their heritage with pride and grace.
Model- Sezal Thukral
2. Ajrak’s Artistic Voyage- Striped and Styled
The model encourages the trendsetting outfit in an A-line. The strapped one-piece dress made from Ajrak fabric is definitely a celebration of distinctive floral and foliage patterns, beautifully accented with striped borders.
The ensemble is elevated with a handcrafted Ajrak bag adorned with delicate pearl tassels that culminate in a tulip flower design, adding an ethereal effect. Topping off her outfit is a charming cap embellished with conch shells, evoking elegance.
This outfit exemplifies the rustic heritage of Ajrak printing in contemporary silhouette and style. Dear readers, embrace this fashion for its artistic heritage, eco-friendly roots, and the unique harmony it brings to modern wardrobes. Thus, making every wearer feel special and connected to a rich cultural legacy.
Model- Kirti Bhartiya
3. Printed Poise- Bagru’s Beauty
In a radiant celebration of Bagru’s heritage, the model graces the runway in a stunning block-printed saree from Bagru, Rajasthan. Crafted with sustainable vegetable dyes, the saree embodies an eco-friendly spirit, harmonizing nature with fashion.
Her ensemble is anchored by a vibrant red pocket adorned with intricate applique work. Delicate floral tassels compliment the look that dance with every step. The block-printed blouse features a classic crew neck, perfectly paired with a Gandhi cap, elegantly embellished with shells.
Completing this tribal ensemble, a striking necklace with silver and conch pieces lies gracefully around her neck! All the adornments of the attire echo the soulful rhythms of Rajasthan’s rich traditions. Each element, from the tassels to the cap, weaves a story of love, tradition, and sustainable elegance.
Model- Bhumi Malhotra
Swaying in sync, the Banjaran girls grace the ramp together displaying tribal artistry and team love!
4. Rustic Rhythm- Ajrakh Styles for Fashionistas
Meet our two beautiful Banjarans, gracefully walking the ramp, showcasing their deep bond of friendship and love for traditional textiles.
The first model dons a gracious black lehenga choli. Intricate Ajrakh borders accentuate her plain cotton lehenga. The halter-style blouse is adorned with Ajrak tassels, adding a playful vibe. An Ajrak cap and a matching bag complete her ensemble, all tied together with oxidized silver jewelry.
The second model is glammed up in an asymmetrical Ajrak dress. The outfit features a sharp contrast of blue and yellow and bold floral designs, creating a striking visual appeal. Her outfit is complemented by an Ajrak cap, a bag with a patch pocket, epaulette work, and conch shell detailing. Oxidized silver jewelry further enhances the tribal essence.
Embrace the elegance of Ajrak as these friends do. Let their style inspire you to celebrate tribal tradition and friendship through fashion.
Models- L-R: Kanishka Singh and Mahima
5. Tribal tale of tulip tassels and Ajrakh borders
The model wears an elegant white cotton lehenga highlighted with intricate Ajrak borders. Paired with an Ajrak blouse, this ensemble includes a matching pocket bordered with Ajrak and tulip-shaped tassels that bring a lively flair. She also adorns a matching cap embellished with tassels finishing in delicate white cotton tulips. The oxidized silver jewelry, including a Banjara necklace, elevates the tribal trend.
This fusion of white cotton and Ajrak creates a harmonious blend of simplicity and cultural craftsmanship. The pairing of these elements showcases the beauty of combining contemporary elegance with traditional crafts. Style this look to honor tradition with a modern twist, and stand out with a look that is both unique and timeless.
Model- Mahima
6. The Pattern play – Ajrak’s Artistic Adventure
In this beautiful ensemble, the model embraces an Ajrak kaftan dress that beautifully showcases the intricate patterns and deep, earthy tones characteristic of Ajrak printing. Flowing with elegance and grace, the kaftan is styled with triangle-tukdi lace and tassels that add a dynamic flair. Paired with a handcrafted bag featuring detailed motifs and more tassels, this look is both striking and culturally rich. Last but not the least, the Ajrakh cap completes the outfit, adding artisanal charm.
Embracing such styles not only celebrates the rich heritage of Indian craftsmanship but also supports sustainable fashion, as these pieces are crafted with love and rhythm using eco-friendly methods. By wearing Ajrak prints, we carry forward the stories and skills of artisans, making a stylish statement that resonates with cultural pride and conscious fashion choices. This blend of tradition and contemporary design encourages us to wear our heritage with pride and elegance.
Model- Deepali Gulia
7. Indigo Vibes: Stripe Your Way to Style!
The model showcases an alluring Kaftan dress crafted from the timeless indigo hand block prints of Bagru. The dress beautifully integrates age-old craftsmanship with a fresh, modern twist, creating a unique visual appeal.
Its striking striped pattern is beautifully contrasted with a vibrant epaulette work below the neckline, intricately adorned with mirror embellishments and delicate conch shell detailing. The tassels at the hem add a playful, dynamic element, swaying with every step and reflecting the spirit of free-spirited fashion.
Complementing the dress, the model dons a matching cap that mirrors the Kaftan’s design, further unifying the ensemble. She carries an indigo block-printed floral bag, further adding beauty to her look. Her accessories include a bold oxidized silver bracelet that wraps around her wrist, making a statement of strength and confidence, and large oxidized earrings that echo the tribal essence of the outfit. This style is for those who value the fusion of comfort and artistry, who wish to carry a piece of history with them, and who are unafraid to stand out with grace and authenticity.
Model- Mallika Kapoor
Some magical moments of group posing on ravishing ramp!
8. Twirl in Tribal Tradition on beats of Ajrakh and Indigo
These two dancers are a vibrant celebration of traditional craftsmanship blended with modern silhouettes, each outfit telling a story of cultural richness and contemporary elegance.
The first dancer on the left exudes a dynamic energy in her Ajrak ensemble. She wears an ajrakh top with an asymmetrical hemline, a unique feature that adds a playful movement to her performance. The hem is delicately highlighted with conch shell adornment, a tribute to the tribal roots of the design, which jingle softly with every step she takes.
This top is paired with a dhoti salwar, a traditional style that is given a fresh twist with conch shell detailing and an array of floral tassels that cascade down, mimicking the rhythm of her dance. Her outfit is completed with a matching Ajrak cap, bringing a cohesive finish to her look. Holding her dandiya sticks with grace, she embodies the festive spirit, making her attire not just a costume but a celebration of art and culture.
Model- Karuna Malik
The second dancer on the right is a vision in indigo, wearing a block-printed A-line kaftan that flows effortlessly with her every move. The asymmetrical hemline of the kaftan is accentuated by a triangular lace trim, adding a delicate touch that complements the boldness of the indigo print. This flowing silhouette is perfect for dance, as it allows for freedom of movement while maintaining an air of elegance.
She accessorizes her look with oxidized jewellery that contrasts beautifully with the deep blue tone of her kaftan. Last but not the least, a striped block-printed cap catches all the attention as it ties the whole outfit together with a nod to tradition.
Model- Sadhana Saini
Both of these outfits showcase the versatility of asymmetrical hemlines, a design choice that not only adds visual interest but also enhances the dancer’s movements, making every step a work of art. Dancers should embrace this fashion style for its fusion of comfort, elegance, and cultural authenticity.
Next, let’s bring the concept of making Sports fashionable into the spotlight!!
Sports, fashion, and craftsmanship are not just compatible, but beautifully complementary.
In a vibrant celebration of India’s rich textile heritage, these models are not merely walking the ramp, rather they are weaving tradition into the threads of a playful sport. Adorned in the intricate patterns of Kalamkari, Ajrak, and Bagru block printing, they stand in unity and their outfits echo the deep cultural roots from which they emerge. Alongside them, the artisans and craftsmen, who have painstakingly created these beautiful outfits, also take the stage. Their presence is a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging the hands and hearts behind the exquisite craftsmanship that brings these textiles to life.
All the creative souls engage in a spirited tug-of-war, but not with a simple rope! Now here comes, the trendy twist at Tale of a Trend Fashion Extravaganza. The tug-of-war rope is a strikingly creative piece- composed of handcrafted triangular pieces of traditional textiles. Each exquisite piece is telling its own story of artistry and craftsmanship.
This fusion of fashion and sport is more than just a visual treat; it’s truly a STATEMENT! It highlights how the elegance and history of traditional Indian textiles can seamlessly blend with the dynamic energy of sports. Each pull of the rope symbolizes the strength and resilience of these ancient crafts, now revived and celebrated in a contemporary setting.
This concept reminds us that fashion is not confined to the runway or the wardrobe. It’s alive in every aspect of life, including sports!
Kudos to the designer Megha Aggarwal for her visionary collection that beautifully melds tradition with modernity!
Megha herself graces the stage in an elegant block-printed saree in hues of grey, adorned with delicate silver laces and complemented by oxidized jewelry. Adding an additional element of cultural charm, she wears a striking red Rajasthani puppet brooch on her right shoulder, showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of her collection.
These ensembles crafted by the designer are not just about aesthetics; they carry the essence of tradition while allowing for the freedom of expression through. The incorporation of traditional elements like conch shells, floral tassels, and intricate invite everyone to embrace the elegance of traditional textiles while making a bold, modern statement.
Embrace these styles to honour the beauty of handmade traditions!!!
That’s all for today dear readers. This Handloom Day special post will surely inspire you all to carry our crafts with pride and passion.
See you soonest!! Till then, stay safe, stay fashionable. Do share your valuable feedback in the comments section of the blog. Keep liking, keep following, stay tuned!
The Trendy Team
Hosted and Conceptualised by Mehak Gulati
Powered by- Redefining the Roots Welfare Association
Designer- Megha Aggarwal (Banjaran)
Event Manager- Pranjal Shivhare
Make up artists- Priya Jethi, Alisha and Bhumi Malhotra
Choreography- Mehak Gulati
Music- Karuna Malik
Venue- Welcomhotel by ITC hotels, Dwarka, Delhi
Sincere gratitude to all our prestigious associates !
Show your love to by sharing this blog post amongst your nears and dears. Many Thanks to all the readers!!
Do check our previous post on Banjaran couture – https://taleofatrend.com/banjaran/
Superb👌
Nice concept.