Celebrities walk the ramp to support traditional artisans

Neha Saini

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, November 5

FICCI FLO Amritsar launched its Revival for Survival project with an evening of glitter and glamour as the members took on ramp in home grown designer labels in presence of celebrity designer Sandeep Khosla. Khosla was joined by actor Malaika Arora and Pinky Reddy, entrepreneur and national president of the FICCI FLO.

The event had members walking the ramp in beautiful creations by city-based designers, including Himani Arora, Rimple Bhandari, Rahat Kapoor and Lakme Fashion week designer Farah Sonjana, who has worked with international designer Vivian Westwood. Plus size model and makeup artist Pranati Bhalla opened the show as she sashayed down the ramp with confidence. The show was choreographed by Vahbiz Mehta.

The Revival for Survival project is an initiative to support Thathera artisans and crafts of weaving parandis and nallas (colourful drawstrings). “These are traditional crafts from Punjab that have been lost in time. Supporting the revival of weavers from specific handloom industry of Punjab, which once was a staple in every household, the project aims at providing not just economical support to the community of weavers but also their art to a global platform through extensive collaborations,” said Arushi Verma, chairperson, FICCI FLO, and the brain behind the project. Her team includes artist Smiley Chaudhary, who is working for revival of the art form through extensive workshops and collaboration with the artisans. “We have also curated a special exhibition displaying the range of jewellery, clothes and décor inculcating the art work,” said Arushi.

Designer Sandeep Khosla and Malaika Arora will also be part of the Revival For Survival exhibition.