daram

Talk on Hand Weaving at dāram

2012-01-13T10:58:00.004+05:30

Over the last decade, Dastkar Andhra has engaged with handloom industry in order to lobby for the sector and intervene in the value chain for understanding issues and growth for the industry. Dastkar Andhra has carried out a successful design and marketing programme for a decade now and we would like to take this opportunity to understand issues in identity for the producer who is engaged in the practice and also issues of technology and product when the consumers are changing at a rapid pace.

In the changing environment where the end product from the loom is very difficult for the weaver to comprehend, what is the relationship between yarn count, construction and technique of weaving? How do any designer and weaver achieve the desirable texture, which will enhance the final product in terms of drape and feel? How does one understand the role of pre-loom and loom technology, skill of the weaver and available knowledge among the community to achieve the appropriate texture? The draping style of sari becoming same across the country and salwar kurta set being the new product, how will different weaving techniques and structures lend themselves to the above products? Jagada Rajappa will elaborate on these points and share her understanding from her vast experience of working with different handloom weaving techniques across the country.

Dastkar Andhra Sankranthi Mela at dāram

2012-01-01T12:58:00.004+05:30

This January Dastkar Andhra welcomes spring with cotton handlooms, bead jewellery, handmade leather footwear, hand painted Kalamkari and traditional kites at Dastkar Andhra Sankranthi Mela. Dastkar Andhra brings select artisans and their craft together to introduce them to Hyderabad at dāram from 10th-14th January 2012. Dastkar Andhra Marketing Association will showcase its wide range of Andhra Cotton Handloom Sarees, yardages and dupattas. Complementing the handlooms will be bright colourful beads & thread jewellery and footwear from Rajasthan. Accompanying these will be artisans from Kalahasti with their collection of hand painted Kalamkari paintings and beautiful kites to offer colorful oblations from kite makers of Rampur, Uttar Pradesh. Asian Heritage Foundation will offer a range of traditional pickles from Guntur district to complete the Mela. Host of offerings for Sankranthi to bring in the new and to have a happy, colourful outing with family and friends.

Madhubani Workshops at dāram

2011-12-20T12:36:00.004+05:30

New Collections Now In Store

2011-12-16T20:04:00.003+05:30

This New Year dāram introduces 4 new styles in kurtis for women! On popular demand dāram has now expanded its range of kurtis to 9 styles, 4 new and 5 old styles. The new expanded range now includes kurtis with new neckline detailing in 3 sleeve lengths to cater to a wide range of women- from students to professionals to elderly ladies travelling abroad. The old kurti styles too have a fresh look with dāram’s latest new prints. One of the most popular category at dāram, the kurtis are completely made of hand woven fabric, some are further hand block printed to create a complete range of casual to semi-formal to occasion wear kurtis that can be worn with jeans, trousers or skirts.

Warm Cosy Woollens Now In Store

2011-12-08T12:20:00.005+05:30

This winter dāram brings a warm collection of woollens from Kullu and Kumaon valleys of the Himalayas. Kullu Karishma and Kumaon Grameen Udyog will showcase their range of sweaters, shawls, ponchos, caps, stoles and mufflers which are made using pure wool and traditional hand skills. Kullu Karishma brings the unique angora-wool blend which is a mix of Angora Rabbit hair and Australian wool which is a delight to touch and wear. Kumaon Grameen Udyog presents interesting blends of wool-silk and wool-linen along with pure woollen products that are well designed and high quality.

Wool-linen blend stoles

Wool-Angora blend sweaters

Merino shawls and stoles

Pure wool mufflers

New Collection of Sarees Now In Store

2011-12-01T17:26:00.002+05:30

Celebrate Children's Day at dāram

2011-11-05T17:10:00.003+05:30

This Children’s Day weekend dāram is organizing a doll making workshops for 5-13 year old children. Apart from inspiring creativity and appreciation for hand processes the highlight of the workshop will be to encourage kids to turn waste into dolls. The raw material used will be waste and found objects that can be turned into dolls reflecting people from all walks of life. Children can also view the photo exhibition of hand weaving process to understand handloom and the intricacies that go into hand weaving.

Celebrate Diwali with dāram

2011-10-23T17:32:00.002+05:30

Saris for Diwali

2011-10-22T13:17:00.003+05:30

This Diwali dāram brings a range of saris to invest in! A rich collection of Benares saris is complemented by a contemporary collection of saris from Bengal. A delightful range of colours, Benares saris are available in deep traditional colors with an extravagant dose of gold and silver zari work. Bengal saris are available in monotones as well as vibrant contrasts. Both the collections are sourced from traditional weavers in true dāram spirit. Bengal saris are a range of cotton, cotton-silk and matka silk, Benares saris exclusively in silk.

New styles and prints now in store

2011-10-18T13:06:00.000+05:30

Celebrate Diwali with unique diyas

2011-10-14T18:57:00.001+05:30

Hands of India now at dāram

2011-10-09T18:02:00.001+05:30

Lai, Silver Jewellery exhibition at dāram

2011-10-07T12:35:00.001+05:30

Khadi Collection for men and women

2011-10-07T12:20:00.004+05:30

To commemorate Gandhi Jayanti dāram launches a special Khadi collection and a photo exhibition of the handloom weaving process. Exhibition on till 31st October, 2011

Chaubundi, Tussar Silk Sarees from Rajasthan

2011-10-06T19:35:00.001+05:30

dāram introduces Hyderabad to Chaubundi Sarees, a range of tussar silk sarees in the dabu (resist technique) block printing tradition of Rajasthan. Chaubundi was a traditional motif for ghagras in Rajasthan. As sarees replaced ghagras, Raghunath Nama, the co-founder of Chaubundi, aptly adapted them to sarees. Coming from the age old block printing Chippa community of Rajasthan his family practiced the art of dabu printing for generations.

"Dabu" is a mud resist process of printing. It uses a mix of clay, chuna, wheat chaff and gum to make a sticky paste that is block printed on the fabric to avoid dye penetration while dyeing the fabric so that the motifs are lighter than the background. This gives the sarees a very earthy feel and sophisticated look. Available in a range of muted hues of green, blues, browns, yellows and purples.

Lambani Embroidered Kurtas for Women

2011-10-06T19:26:00.002+05:30

A collection of women’s kurtas hand embroidered by the lambani artisans of Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra. These artisans, belonging to a nomadic tribe more commonly called banjara, having no permanent homes made their aesthetic sense apparent in their clothes.

For an environment friendly Ganesh Chathurti

2011-08-29T09:09:00.000+05:30

2011-08-29T09:08:00.001+05:30

Exhibition of silk sarees from Kanishka's, Kolkata

2011-08-27T15:37:00.000+05:30

Silk-Cotton sarees from Pencildots, Bangalore

2011-08-10T15:10:00.000+05:30

On daram's 4th anniversary

2011-06-09T18:26:00.001+05:30

10th June
Meet the weavers behind daram...

For World Environment Day

2011-06-02T14:45:00.006+05:30

On the occasion of World Environment Day (June 5) dāram brings to Hyderabad a range of recycled products from organizations and initiatives from across the country.
(Available from June 4 to 15th)

1) eCoexist is a Pune based social enterprise that seeks to promote eco-sensitive products through socially sensitive means. Website: http://www.e-coexist.com/. Products from eCoexist include bags made from handloom cotton fabric that can be used as alternatives to plastic. These include:
- Sling bags
- Pouches
- Laptop sleeves
- Gift bags
- Conference bags
- College bags

2) Natur-tec’s (www.natur-tec.com) products include bio-based (100% biodegradable and compostable) alternatives to plastic that, for example, are made from corn-starch. Their products provide sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics and the range available at dāram will include:
- Trash bags (Bin liners)
- Carry bags
- Cutlery

3) Thunk (www.thunkinindia.com ) works to empower livelihoods in families living in slums, with self-help groups, HIV patients and tribal communities by using materials such as tetra pack cartons, plastic carry bags, polythene covers, automobile parts, areca, banana fibre, and coconut husk. The Thunk product range available includes:
- Bags – medium and large hand bags
- Wallets
- Laptop bags
- Pouches
- Pen stands

4) Varnajalam products are made from recycled plastic wire and discarded flex banners. - Storage boxes / baskets
- Shopping bags / baskets
- Purses
- Pencil cases
- Student bags
- Aprons

New women's collection in hand block prints from Rajasthan

2011-05-27T18:50:00.000+05:30

A new Kora collection for summer

2011-05-12T20:57:00.000+05:30

The all new dāram

2011-04-17T20:10:00.006+05:30

- a new location
- new collections
- a new experience

presenting a all new dāram for the best in handloom clothing for men, women and children

Hindu deities in the traditional Kalahasti painting style

2011-04-17T20:03:00.002+05:30

New range for boys

2011-04-16T11:19:00.005+05:30

Introducing a new range of shirts and kurtas
for boys upto 13 yrs

Sarees for summer

2011-04-03T19:21:00.002+05:30

New range of home accessories

2011-03-23T19:16:00.001+05:30

dāram launches a range of contemporary hand crafted home accessories incorporating traditional Indian craft techniques from 'Then & Now.

'Then & Now'was set up by Uma Tewari in 2009 in New Delhi. Uma Tewari has seven to eight years’ experience working with crafts persons through Dastkar, New Delhi.

The primary objective of 'Then & Now' is to bring traditional craft skills into our homes and allow it to live in accessible, utilitarian home accessories.

Made primarily of wood incorporating different painting styles, hand block printing and engraving, the techniques applied are of:

Madhubani, Bihar
Gond, Madhya Pradesh
Kalamkari, Andhra Pradesh
Patachitra, Orissa
Sanjhi, wooden toys and wood carving of Uttar Pradesh

The home accessories available include:
Mirrors
Lamp shades and lamp stands
Shelves
Trays and Coasters
Pen stands and Paper stands

Rang Dulaar Holi Colours at dāram

2011-03-12T17:15:00.017+05:30

eco friendly colours

DRY COLOURS:

RED YELLOW ORANGE GREEN BLUE

WET COLOUR:

PINK

In Packets of 100 g and 250 g

Made by women of the Malnad Seed Collective, Sirsi, the Rang Dulaar colours are made from herbs and farm produce and are marketed by eCoexist, a Pune based social enterprise.

The genesis of Rang Dulaar was the Safe Festivals Campaign run by Kalpavriksh Environmental Action Group.

To know more log on to http://www.e-coexist.com/products/holi/rang-dulaar

New Ajrakh collection...

2011-03-12T13:21:00.000+05:30

daram's first exhibition of women's garments in Pune

2011-02-25T19:06:00.005+05:30

Venue: Apte Hall, Apte Road, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune
Dates: March 3-5, 2011
Time: 10.3o am to 8 pm
Contact Number: 9371024506
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Hand Embroidery Workshop

2011-02-15T13:37:00.035+05:30

dāram presents a hand embroidery workshop on February 19 and 20, 2011

Traditional artisans of Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra, Karnataka and Sadhna, Rajasthan would be demonstrating embroidery at the workshop.

Lambani artisans of Sandur would be demonstrating their distinctive Lambani embroidery while Sadhna artisans would be demonstrating the Tanka embroidery they specialise in.

The workshop would be conducted in three sessions of a duration of two hours each. Registration is compulsory and would be on a first come basis. No fee would be charged from those willing to participate.

Naga Weaves and Jewellery

2011-02-11T16:17:00.058+05:30

dāram presents for the first time traditional weaves and jewellery of the different Naga tribes spread across Manipur and Nagaland

R Pamringla Vashum is a Thangkul Naga weaver. She has been working with widows in Ukhrul, Manipur where a large concentration of Nagas exist.

The weaves are a range of

Shawls Stoles Sarongs Cushion Covers Table Mats Shoulder Bags

The jewellery is hand crafted by both men and women with materials traditionally available like bone, shell, stone, brass and glass.

The jewellery is a collection of

Necklaces Bracelets

Each weave and jewellery is rooted in the lore and history of the North East and of the Naga tribes in particular.

Ahimsa Silk

2011-01-28T16:42:00.030+05:30

dāram presents, for the first time, Ahimsa silk from Bhagalpur, Bihar in a collection of shawls, stoles, dupattas, and rugs.

Generally, in the process of silk weaving, the pupae in the cocoons are killed by boiling, steaming and fumigating. In Ahimsa non violent silk, the pupa is allowed to complete its life cycle and when it takes wing as moth, the yarn is woven from the silk filaments entangled round the empty cocoon.

PRAACHI is an organisation that has been working in Bhagalpur in the design, production and marketing of Ahimsa silk through the efforts of its founder Varsha Rani. Bhagalpur has traditionally been famous for its silk weaving.

Mangalgiri saris and hand embroidered women’s kurtas

2011-01-11T17:23:00.091+05:30

dāram presents

an offering for Sankranthi in a range of Mangalgiri saris and hand embroidered women’s kurtas

Hand Embroidered Kurtas

Chikankari

This is the first time that Chikankari has been threaded into the dāram design, which is a combine of many qualities: simple, elegant, subtle and ornate.

dāram in collaboration with the Serenity group, Lucknow , has worked on these kurtas.

Tanka

The tanka – the running stitch embroidery or straight stitch has been used for the dāram kurtas from Rajasthan. The tanka work has been done by Sadhna, a women’s handicraft enterprise in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

To know more, log on to www.sadhna.org

Lambani

The Lambanis are nomads settled in Sandur, Karnataka. dāram’s designer has picked a few from the wide range of Lambani stitches to highlight the neckline and to detail the dāram cuts.

Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra, a group working with the Lambanis, has worked to embroider the kurtas. To know more, log on to www.kushalakalasandur.com

Saris – Mangalgiri

Mangalgiri – a town in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh – and its surrounding villages has traditionally been known for its hand woven cotton sari weaves.

On display at dāram are saris in hand dyed yarns of cross colours in which the warp colour is different from the weft colour. The variety of zari borders includes the Nizam border, the temple border, the flower border and the pattern border.

Winter wear in pure wool at dāram

2010-12-28T14:20:00.062+05:30

Shawls, Stoles, Jackets & Caps

Pure wool range in vegetable and chemical dyed hand weaves

Kullu Karishma

Located in Himachal Pradesh, Kullu Karishma puts to use the arts of spinning, weaving, knitting and crochet that have been in practice since a long time in the mountains. The knitting is primarily done by women in their homes with Angora rabbit wool and Merino wool.

To know more about Kullu Karishma please log on to www.kullukarishma.com

Kumaun Grameen Udyog

An associate of the Central Himalayan Action Group, the Kumaun Grameen Udyog or KGU is located in Nainital district of Uttarakhand. KGU works with local artisans and producers. As with Kullu Karishma, the knitting is done by women in their homes.

To know more about Kumaun Grameen Udyog and the work they do please visit www.kilmora.in

Chaubundi

The Chaubundi is a traditional hand block printer of the Chippa community of Rajasthan. The hand block print on the shawls is the dabu – a mud resist technique of Kaladera, Rajasthan. The traditional block designs of Kaladera have been used in the geometric and floral motifs.

Chikankari

Chikankari is a traditional embroidery of Lucknow. Apparently, the word chikan is a derivative of the Persian word chikin or chikeen which means a kind of embroidered fabric. To know more please refer to Chikan – A Way of Life by Ruth Chakravarthy.

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS from dāram!!!

2010-12-24T17:33:00.005+05:30

On Christmas Eve, this year, dāram would like to wish all its customers and friends a warm and Merry Christmas!!!

For the season, dāram has eco sensitive ideas and gifts made form recycled material in a small collection of photo frames, jewellery boxes, pen stands, pads, runners, cloth and jute bags from

Prabhat & ecoexist

The display will be on till the New Year. There will also be more to look forward to, in this winter, till it slips by and leaves us all.

How to Compost at Home

2010-12-23T19:25:00.000+05:30

dāram will present an innovative composting demonstration on December 25 and 26, 2010, the timings for which will be 12:00 p.m. till 5:00 p.m.

The demonstration will be conducted by Huda Masood of Hyderabad Goes Green. The partner to Hyderabad Goes Green in home composting is Daily Dump.

Daily Dump is a waste management company that shows how household waste can be converted to useful, nutrient rich compost. Daily Dump offers composting solutions and has designed a number of simple home Composters.

New collections for the festive season

2010-10-31T01:02:00.002+05:30

This Diwali...

2010-10-29T21:58:00.003+05:30

This Diwali, daram brings in the warmth of terracotta diyas from Kumbham
and gifts of regal home furnishings from Rehwa.

Kumbham
Located in Kerala, the Kumbham Society began in the year 1993 and today
has a product range of over 500 designs.The hand crafted diyas, made by the potter women, is a celebration of a traditional aesthetic, keeping the age old terracotta craft alive.

Rehwa
Maheshwar, a town in Madhya Pradesh has been known for its handloom weaving
since the fifth century. In a bid to revatilise the weaving industry ofMaheshwar, the Rehwa Society was founded in the year 1978.

The exclusive home linen collection has sheer drapes, cushion covers, bed linen and table linen in shades of the subtle white, gold, silver, vibrant reds, greens and blues.

The exhibition is currently on till Diwali *at* *our new location*:

at 1-10-3/1, Boorugu Vihar,
Lane next to Andhra Bank, Near Prakash Nagar,
Opp: Old Airport Lane, Behind Bottles and Chimneys
Begumpet, Hyderabad - 500 016

New Saree collection from Sanganer, Rajasthan

2010-10-14T02:28:00.001+05:30

We have moved...

2010-10-08T20:50:00.001+05:30

Benaras saree exhibition

2010-10-08T17:28:00.005+05:30

dāram has moved to a new place and has stored up a dazzling celebration for dussehra!

We are now at

1-10-3/1, Boorugu Viha
Lane next to Andhra Bank, Near Prakash Nagar
Opp: Old Airport Lane, Behind Bottles & Chimney
Begumpet, Hyderabad – 500016
(Just across the road from our old location)
Tel: +91 40 27765503/ 09849023417
e-mail: daaram.da@gmail.com

To kickstart this new beginning, dāram has a shimmering drape of Benarasi weaves for Dussehra.

This exhibition of Benarasi silk saris has been crafted by weaver Zaheer Ansari who has been working on the loom since childhood. The textile industry of Benaras has ancient origins, rooted in the past. The saris woven on the indigenous looms are exquisite and resplendent, by any standard.

In the practice of his art, Zaheer Ansari has had an active interest in new ideas and has, concurrently, introduced new patterns into his weaves.

The exhibition at dāram offers a peek into the range and depth of Zaheer’s creative zeal.

Do be a part of it! The store would be open all seven days a week till Diwali.

Grand discount sale at dāram

2010-09-16T19:43:00.005+05:30

dāram is moving on October 1st, 2010

Before the move, we are offering a special discount sale on our garments and the entire black pottery range.

Men’s wear – 20% and 40% off
Women’s wear –20%, 40% and 50% off
Kids’ wear – 40% off
Black pottery – 30% off

The sale would be on from September 16, 2010 till September 21, 2010.

The new dāram address:

1-10-3/1, Lane next to Andhra Bank, Prakash Nagar, Behind Bottles and Chimneys, Begumpet

Potli Educational Activity/Craft Kits for children

2010-08-23T18:35:00.007+05:30

Now available at dāram
Educational Activity/Craft Kits from Kadam, Kolkata. The kits have been designed to sensitize the children to the various arts and crafts of India, in a hope that they can nurture our culture with love and pride and ensure its continuity in the years to come. These include a Hand Block Printing Kit, Bead Craft Kit, a Phad Painting Kit, and a Warli Painting Kit.

This Raksha Bandhan

2010-08-21T17:58:00.002+05:30

On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, daram presents
a) A new range of men’s kurtas and shirts.
The collection has long and short kurtas, full and half sleeve shirts in a variety of hand woven textures including textured stripes and checks in vibrant colours

b) Gift items, bags and accessories from Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra, Sandur, Karnataka

Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra works with women of the Lambada community towards enhancing their livelihood security. The distinctive feature of their products is the well known Lambada embroidery.
Also see http://www.kushalakalasandur.com/

Chanderi sarees exhibition

2010-07-26T20:08:00.004+05:30

dāram brings to Hyderabad a range of Chanderi sarees and co-ordinated salwar kurta sets from Sutra Handicrafts, New Delhi.

Dates: July 29 (Thursday) to August 3 (Tuesday)

The town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for this unique fabric that is a combination of silk (warp) and cotton (weft). Zari is also extensively used in these weaves that were patronised by royalty for their fragile lightness, pastel hues and intricate motifs inspired by nature and the stunning temples of the town.

Sutra Handicrafts was created by the Foundation for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Clusters with a strong belief that there is the need to support the marketing of handloom products produced by groups of artisans.

The collection being presented at daram includes the traditional woven Chanderi sarees along with handblock prints from Bagru and Sanganer in Rajasthan) and Bagh in Madhya Pradesh. The sarees are also available in Leheriya (Tie & Dye) from Rajasthan and contemporary hand batik prints from Shantiniketan, West Bengal.

This summer...

2010-04-26T18:15:00.002+05:30

On Earth Day

2010-04-22T21:21:00.002+05:30

...cloth bags at daram

New sarees from coastal Andhra

2010-04-18T19:37:00.000+05:30

Coming to dāram this April

2010-04-01T18:08:00.011+05:30

8th April onwards
A RAJASTHAN SPECIAL that brings together contemporary designs and traditional techniques:

a) Kurta's embroidered in Soof and Pucca techniques by the Meghwal community, Bikaner

AND
b) Cotton handloom sarees in vibrant handblock prints from Sanganer, Jaipur

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Coming soon
A fresh summer collection of cotton sarees in new zari and thread borders from coastal Andhra Pradesh
----
22nd April
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
Basic Cotton handloom bags to replace plastic.
A small step for the planet on World Earth Day.

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Summer collection

2010-03-16T17:26:00.005+05:30

This summer, dāram introduces a wide range of garments for women in new textured Kora fabrics.

The textures, among others, include self-stripes, self-checks, khadi and slub.

Self-checks

Self-stripe

the new generation of dāram patrons

2010-03-15T09:47:00.006+05:30

dāram new range of kids' wear in cotton handlooms has received a very positive and encouraging response from our patrons of all ages...

Kanjeevaram and Tussar silks, Hand-crafted jewelry for Ugadi

2010-03-11T12:34:00.009+05:30

March 11th - 16th

The collection would showcase Kanjeevaram silk sarees with kalamkari applique work, block printed sarees in pure Chettinad, Rasipuram cottons, pure light weight silks and silk cottons. Light weight silk sarees with Worli and Madhubani hand-paintings would also be available.

The hand – woven and hand block-printed Tussar silk sarees have fast, azo free colours and are created using steam discharge print which requires skilled workmanship. Some very old copper outline heritage blocks with very fine outlines are used for traditional designs of kutch, sanganer, kalamkari, jama-e-war and madhubani. Also available would be silk stoles.

The designer silver jewelry by Azia is a versatile range that redefines the existing notions around what has commonly become well-known as “Jaipur jewellery.” The line of jewelry is not about any one style or ‘look’, but about originality and versatility, offering exclusive designs for every unique woman and her moods. The Azia collection is a rare combination of tradition and innovation, simple everyday wearables to the exotic, pure sensual lines to the ornate classics, the subtle, the trendy, the ethnic and the chic.

Launching kids' wear

2010-03-04T22:06:00.007+05:30

It is the turn of the kids now at dāram. This summer (March 5th),
dāram launches

a range of cotton handlooms collection for kids that blends traditional aesthetics with contemporary styles.

Cotton handlooms allow the skin to breathe and are soft on the body. They are the best summer fabric for kids.
The range includes garments for the new-born and boys & girls upto the age of 7 years.

The new-borns collection

Specially designed keeping the needs and comfort of the little ones in mind. This is evident in the fastening and styling of the clothes.

6-12 months
Frocks for girls and shirts for the boys

1-7 years

skirts, tops, dresses, frocks, harem pants, pyjamas, capris for girl
shirts (half & full sleeved), T-shirts, knickers and shorts for the boys

Also introducing accessories for kids that include

Hand knitted toys, bags and natural colour painting kits from the Kumaon Himalayas, Uttarakhand
Games from Kalaraksha (Gujarat), Haathi Chaap (New Delhi)
Do-it-yourself craft kits (block printing, bead stringing and traditional painting forms) from Art Bunker (Kolkata)

Natural colors for holi

2010-03-02T16:49:00.013+05:30

Celebrate this holi with natural colors. These colours are free from any chemical content and have been made by the women of the Malnad Seed Collective, Sirsi and sold by e-coexist.


		The Rang Dulaar colours are based on turmeric, which is very good for the health of human skin. The ingredients in the colours are as follows: Red: Turmeric, Lemon juice, Alum, Cocum Yellow: Turmeric Orange: Turmeric, Cocum Green: Glyricidea, Nirgudi, Spinach, Hibiscus, Tulsi, Henna, Indigo and other local leaves Blue: Harda (Terminalia Chebula), Indigo Fillers: Rice flour Since these are all food products, the colours are best used within four months of the manufacture date, after which they will degrade.
		Colours are also based on recycled flowers collected during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, which are seggregated, dried and powdered.
		These flowers include those that are cultivated such as marigold, gerbara, rose, tuberose. Some flowers provide colour whereas others are used simply to add fragrance or volume.

Colours currently available:

Red
Yellow
Green
Blue
Orange

The colours help the women prisoners of the Yerawada Central Prison to earn and save money.

Available in packets of:

250 gm (50 gm each of five colours), 100 gm (each color)

All colours are based on herbs and farm produce.

Honey and bee wax products from the Nilgiris

2010-02-04T15:45:00.006+05:30

Till Stocks last...

dāram brings to the Hyderabad for the first time wild honey and bee wax products from the forests of the Nilgiris.

LAST FOREST
The ‘Last Forest’ range of wild bee products is being brought in collaboration the Kotagiri based ‘Keystone Foundation’ that works with tribal communities in the Nilgiri mountains for livelihood enhancement and forest conservation.
The products that will be available come from the lower Nilgiris, where a number of hunter-gatherer communities practise honey hunting and subsistence agriculture.
Honey and bee wax is collected from the forests by the tribal communities using their traditional methods and Keystone works towards value addition, marketing and creating awareness in the consumer communities.

Hive of the rock bee Apis dorsata

Products that will be available include:
• Sweet honey, bitter honey and spiced honey in flavors of ginger, pepper and saffron
• Lip Balms in flavors of Honey, Strawberry, Pineapple and Orange
• Beeswax balms in scents of Eucalyptus, Coconut, Camphor, Olive, Lavender, Citronella and Winter Green
• Soaps in scents of Jasmine, Basil and Lemon Grass.

KEYSTONE FOUNDATION
Keystone has been working in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve over the last 15 years (since 1995) with indigenous communities on eco-development initiatives. The Foundation’s work has been concentrated in the areas of apiculture, land development, organic & fair trade marketing, non timber forest produce and many more.

Honey hunting
Traditional honey gathering is done by indigenous people of the Nilgiris. Keystone has undertaken work with the Kurumba and Irula communities to document their practices, provide training in better extraction methods, map the resources (bee populations) and monitor regularly, provide parameters for quality of honey and bees wax and provide marketing support for the produce.

THE NILGIRIS

Forests of the nilgiris

The Nilgiris in the Western Ghats are home to moist, dry, evergreen and montane (shola) tropical forests. The Western Ghats, and the Nilgiris in particular, harbour a wealth of flora and fauna; much of which is restricted to the region. e.g. the endangered lion tailed macaque and the Nilgiri tahr. The Nilgiris forest ecosystem is, however, under pressures, e.g. from tea and coffee plantations, illegal, logging and commercial tree plantations with exotics initiated by the Forest Department. It also has a significant tribal population, dependent on natural resources for their livelihood; including the only surviving hunter-gatherers of the Indian sub-continent the Sholanaikans in the New Amarambalam region of Nilgiris. Given its distinct character, the Nilgiris forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (declared under the Man and Biosphere Programme of UNESCO).

Gaur in the forests. The forests of the Nilgiris have a rich diversity of plant and animal life

Diversity of Forests
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve includes all the important forest types that are to be found in South India as well as some that are just peculiar to the belt such as Tropical Thorn Forest, Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests, Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests, Tropical Semi Evergreen Forests, Sub Tropical Broad Leaved Forests, Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests, Southern Montane Wet Temperate Forests, Southern Montane Wet Grasslands and Subtropical Hill Savannas.

Source: http://keystone-foundation.org/

Day 2 - block printing demos at dāram

2010-02-02T09:41:00.004+05:30

Here are some pictures from Day 2 (Jan. 31) of the handblock printing demos held at dāram

A young visitor in action...

The tiny tots had a great time...

...And so did the others.

Also see
http://daaram.blogspot.com/2010/01/1st-day-of-hand-block-printing.html
and
http://daaram.blogspot.com/2010/01/block-printing-demonstrations-bagru.html

1st day of hand block printing demonstrations

2010-01-30T22:19:00.003+05:30

Here are a few pictures from Day 1 (Jan 30) of the block printing demos at daram

Sanjay and Purnamalji Chippa displaying the printing from Bagru to a curious group of visitors

Getting the right angle...a TV crew in action

At work...

Jabbar bhai displays one of his Ajrakh creations

The block and the print from Kutch

For details of the workshops and the printers please see
http://daaram.blogspot.com/2010/01/block-printing-demonstrations-bagru.html

Traditional hand-block printing demonstrations

2010-01-26T22:21:00.009+05:30

dāram presents two days of demonstrations of traditional block-printing in natural dyes from Bhuj (Gujarat) and Bagru (Rajasthan). Printers Abdul Jabbar from Bhuj (Gujarat) and Sanjay Chippa from Bagru (Rajasthan) who work with dāram would be showcasing their craft during the demonstrations.

Dates
January 30 and 31, 2010
(Saturday and Sunday)

Time
11.30 am, 2.00 pm, 3.30 pm and 5.00 pm

Traditional block, Bhuj, Gujarat

Traditional blocks, Bagru, Rajasthan

A note on the printers and printing traditions

Abdul Jabbar from Dhamadka in Bhuj started working as an Ajrakh block printer at the age of 8 years. He trained under his father and has been conferred the National Award for Excellence in Craft by The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India in the year 2003. He has personally trained over 45 youth in this technique and has participated in various researches and documentation projects with scholars across the world in the area of Natural dyes, Ajrakh printing, design, folk traditions and other related fields.
Abdul Jabbar comes from a family of traditional Ajrakh Block Printers who have been practicing this craft for the past 9 generations as per documented history. His father Mohamad Siddique Khatri was instrumental in reviving the vegetable dyeing and printing techniques in Kutch and the entire family continues to practice the craft.
Ajrakh Block Printing: - Ajrakh is a centuries old technique of printing and dyeing using natural dyes from mineral and vegetable sources. This extremely complicated technique uses resist, pigment, mordant and dyeing techniques in various sequences to create printed textiles for use by the local communities. These textiles were objects of desire across the world for many centuries. A specialty of this technique is that the printing is done on both sides of the fabric so that there is no wrong side in the finished textile. Even with the advent of modern printing technology this is very difficult to achieve. A true Ajrakh would undergo 12 – 16 different processes and use over 25 different blocks. It would require at least four weeks printing this textile.

Printer at work, Bhuj, Gujarat

Drying fabric, Bhuj, Gujarat

Alizarine and indigo fabric laid out for drying, Bhuj, Gujarat

Ajrakh, Bhuj, Gujarat

---
Sanjay Chhipa was born and brought up in a traditional hand-block printing family in Bagru, near Jaipur in Rajasthan. He graduated from the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design, Jaipur with a diploma degree in Craft designing in Soft Material Application (SMA) and works currently as a free lance designer based in Jaipur. He also runs Nisha Handicrafts that specializes in hand block printing.
About Bagru and Bagru Printing: Bagru is a small town in Rajasthan located 32 kms. west of Jaipur city. It is famous for its traditional process of hand block printing with natural colours. The artisans here do printing with Syahi and Begur and also using a resist technique called Dabu printing, a very old technique of the printing.
The Bagru prints in the past have been mainly used by the local population, particularly by women. Design and patterns are printed with rich colours like Indigo blue, Alizarine red, Iron black and bright yellow. Resist pastes, natural dyes, khar earth from bank of the river flowing nearby as well as other natural materials were used in the printing process. Geometrical forms are used along with floral, animal and bird forms to create the patterns that are printed.

Resist printing (dabu), Kaladera, Rajasthan

Alizarine dyeing in copper pot, Bagru, Rajasthan

Washing fabric, Bagru, Rajasthan

Indigo fabric laid out to dry, Bagru, Rajasthan

Launching Sarangi

2010-01-10T17:53:00.006+05:30

Fine Kanjivaram silk sarees from Sarangi, Chennai

ABOUT THE KANJIVARAM

The Kanjivaram - arguably the queen of silks - reigns supreme as the most versatile, breathable, durable, and exquisitely comfortable sari known to the world. It is a natural insulator and possesses the unique ability to draw moisture away from your skin. It is a sophisticated masterpiece of technique and skill that has evolved over centuries. Blessed by the unique confluence of history, geography and culture of Kanchipuram, the city of a thousand temples, the master weavers of this land elevated the handwoven silk sari to high art.

To own a Kanjivaram is to know that each sari is so different and so special that no two can ever be exactly alike. To wrap yourself in the luxury of a Kanjivaram is to know that somebody’s complete attention was on that weaving for many days. To experience the magic of a Kanjivaram is to know that you are wearing a sari that is at once smart, stylish, sensual and classic.

ABOUT SARANGI

Sarangi celebrates the spirit of the Kanjivaram with a range of saris that are elegant, beautiful and always special. Never blatanly modern, each sari is designed keeping the aesthetics and sensibility of The Kanjivaram in mind.

Kurtas, Salwar suits and Sarees from Weavers' Studio

2009-12-31T14:25:00.010+05:30

Hand-block printed suits and sarees from West Bengal in pure silk (Matka and Tussar).

Weavers Studio brings out the richness of traditional textiles and weaves which showcase the vivid Indian design to contemporary silhouettes and handcrafted wearable textiles. Having added colour to craft, the collection offers diverse options of surface decorations and embellishments like kantha work.

To read more about Weaver's Studio, visit http://www.weaversstudio.com/aboutus/index.html

Accessories from Kala Raksha

2009-12-31T13:59:00.004+05:30

Bags, purses, table-mats, shawls, games, post-cards from Kala Raksha

Kala Raksha, a grassroots social enterprise in the desert region of Kutch is dedicated to preservation of traditional arts and envisions this broadly, as holistic encouraging of the creative capacity of the artist.

To read more about Kala Raksha, visit http://www.kala-raksha.org/index.htm

Winter wear

2009-12-19T14:50:00.009+05:30

Winter wear arrives at daaram

Sweaters, stoles, shawls, mufflers, caps from Kumaun Grameen Udyog from Nainital(Uttarakhand) and Kullu Karishma from Kullu(Himachal).

All products are made out of vegetable dyed hand-spun wool and are hand woven and hand knitted.

KGU works with the aim of providing livelihood opportunities for the local community. They work with 100 artisans and sources from over 350 small farmers.

To read more about KGU, visit www.kilmora.in

To read about Kullu Karishma, visit www.kullukarishma.com

dāram is looking for managers

2009-12-02T15:54:00.004+05:30

Individuals with experience in the retail sector
and
interest in handloom industry

The work would include among other things:
- management of production and financial systems
- customer care and servicing
- publicity and outreach

The opening offers an unique opportunity to engage with the entire retail value chain from production of fabric to value addition for garments, to outreach and sales.

Send us your details and resume to: daaram.da@gmail.com

Pottery from Bhuj (Gujarat), Kangra (Himachal Pradesh), Basketry from Bhutan, Bags from Avni (Uttaranchal), Handloom curtains in all hues and colors

2009-11-27T20:03:00.006+05:30

Pottery has traditionally been a locally and environmentally sustainable craft in Bhuj. The sources of all the natural resources needed to turn earth into pottery are local. Local clay, local white clay, water, thorns and tender stems from the Prosophis Julifera plant, jaru leaves, and black stone which are used in the making are found in the potters’ villages.

Bamboo and cane crafts in Bhutan is known as (Tsharzo), bamboo and tall perennial grass found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The dyeing of bamboo and cane in order to make colorful products was adopted in the 1970s. Traditional natural colors include Yellow, green, natural, blue-purple, or maroon.

Urmul manages the Bajju embroidery which is famous for its quality and range of designs that it produces on garments, soft furnishings and bags. The primary colours of red, black, white, golden yellow and green viridian are used

Fresh stock from Timbaktu Organic

2009-11-20T17:37:00.008+05:30

Fresh stock of organic food has arrived from Timbaktu. The following products are now available in the store:

Foxtail Millet - Korra
1	Korra rice	Organic
2	Korra rava	Organic
Little Millet - Saama
3	Sama rice	Organic
4	Sama rava	Organic
Great Millet - Jowar
5	Jowar flour	Organic
6	Jowar rava	Organic
Finger Millet - Ragi
7	Ragi flour	Organic
8	Ragi malt	Organic
Peanuts
9	Peanuts Oil	Organic

For interesting recipes of these foods, visit http://timbaktu-organic.org/custprmilletrecipe.html

Mix and Match

2009-11-17T15:47:00.004+05:30

Prints from Sanganeer

2009-11-16T20:05:00.009+05:30

The block printed textiles of Sanganer became famous in the 16th and 17th centuries in Europe, when the East India Company began to export them in bulk. Today, there are over 154 block printing units in Sanganer, and these employ around 20,000 people. There are around 3000 families engaged in this Rajasthani craft.

Colors have special significance in Sanganer and Bagru prints. For instance, red is the color of love, yellow of spring, indigo of Lord Krishna, and saffron of the yogi (seer). The wooden blocks that are used are made of teak wood. And traditionally, vegetable dyes made of madder, pomegranate rind, indigo, and turmeric are used.

Some photographs of hand-block printing for dāram garments at Sanganer :

Organic food from Timbaktu

2009-10-22T15:35:00.006+05:30

These products have been cultivated through safe and ethical organic farming using only organic manures, pest repellents, and growth promoters. A list of the products available can be seen in the picture below.

To read more about Timbaktu, visit http://timbaktu-organic.org/

Silk sarees from South India

2009-10-14T14:47:00.009+05:30

dāram presents a range of Kanjeevaram, Uppada, Paithani and hand block-printed silk sarees for Diwali

Paithani sarees stand out because of their intricate designs on the pallu and the border. Motifs on the pallu are generally those of peacock, lotus, mango and other designs recreated from the antique paintings of Ajanta, the royal brocades of the Nawabs of Bengal, Mughal architecture and the ancient temple frescos of the south. Traditional creative artistry and pain staking workmanship combine to form this handmade textile creation in finest mulberry silk, gold and silver zari.

Hand block-printed silk sarees have fast, azo free colours and are created using steam discharge print, requiring skilled workmanship. Some very old copper outline heritage blocks with very fine outlines are used for traditional designs of kutch, sanganer, kalamkari, jama-e-war and madhubani

Accessories from Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra

2009-10-12T18:04:00.012+05:30

This Diwali, dāram presents a range of bags, wallets, purses and pouches from Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra, Bellary.

Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra works with Lambani artisans in the Bellary district of Karnataka. Lambanis or Banjaras are a nomadic, gypsy tribe and are well-known for their exquisite traditional hand-embroidery using various stitches and mirror crafts. The embroidery on the bags, purses and pouches is a fusion of pattern darning, mirror work, cross stitch, and overlaid and quilting stitches with borders of Kangura patchwork appliqué done on a base fabric which is hand-block-printed in traditional Lambani motifs. A distinctive design element is the use of local mud resistant handloom fabric, and mirrors, shells, white ornamental trims in addition to Kasuti work, a unique form of needlework native to North Karnataka.

The Kendra was established in 1988 with a basic objective to train and develop locally available skills in the arts and crafts, thereby improving the quality of life for artisans. For the last two decades the organization has successfully helped promote traditional crafts like lambani embroidery, Karnataka kasuti, cane and bamboo crafts, stone and woodcarving, and also the spinning and weaving of cotton khadi fabric.

To read more about the Kendra and its works, visit http://www.kushalakalasandur.com

Home linen from Rehwa

2009-09-24T15:29:00.019+05:30

Sept. 24 - 29

REHWA HOME LINEN, a range of woven, printed and embroidered Maheshwaris

With an aim to bring forth the variety in weaves and to highlight the endless possibilities of the Maheshwari handlooms, Rehwa expanded itself into home linen, creating more possibilities for weavers in Maheshwar and Chanderi .

The collection has a unique variety of sheer drapes, cushion covers, bed linen and table linen in subtle shades of white, gold and silver to vibrant reds, greens and blues, exquisitely handworked by Ashraya Niketan, Bangalore.

ABOUT REHWA SOCIETY

REHWA Society is the spearhead of progress for the handloom weavers of Maheshwar, a historic weaving centre in Central India. Founded in 1978, REHWA Society brings design and marketing skills to Maheshwari handloom weavers. Maheshwari saris were famous throughout Western India due to the patronage of the Royal House of Holkar. REHWA works towards the upliftment of its in-house weavers and the weavers of Maheshwar.

Festive range of sarees for Dushera

2009-09-21T17:18:00.004+05:30

Celebrate this Dushera with a festive range of silk sarees from the weavers of Uppada and printed cotton sarees from Jaipur

Launching Lilaras at dāram

2009-09-17T17:54:00.009+05:30

Lilaras is silver jewellery that is light-hearted, yet beautiful. It is playful and intense all at once. It is for that woman who is alive, beautiful and unique. Each piece is truly ethnic. Each piece has been specially handcrafted for today’s Indian woman. Lilaras seeks to keep the artisan and his art alive by keeping handcrafting alive. Drawing inspiration from nature, it tries to capture the unpretentious glory of nature in a work of art.

Ahalya, the designer, insists that jewellery should have style, substance, and soul; if it is to communicate and be relevant to the user’s life. All her jewellery is proudly hand-made by master craftsmen; so every piece she designs is authentic and precious, individual and unique. She uses her extensive knowledge of Indian jewellery as the starting point for her work, which is startlingly original and entirely attuned to evolving global aesthetics. And that is entirely in keeping with the artistic traditions of India.

Kandanghi sarees and Kottan basketry of Chettinad from MRM Cultural Foundation, Chennai

2009-09-09T17:50:00.014+05:30

dāram presents Kottan basketry and a range of Kandanghi sarees in cotton and silk from Chettinad.

The exhibition is on at dāram from 10th September to 16th September.

The Kandanghi Sari

The Kandanghi saris are the Chettinad answer to the wastelands; the brilliant colours are the perfect foil against the monochrome landscape. The traditional colours of bright yellows, oranges, red and a minimal black are used in a pattern of stripes or checks with broad borders. Woven in coarse cotton or silk, the saris throw out the vividness of the colour.

The Kottan

The traditional Palmyra basketry of Chettinad, Kottans were once woven by the Chettinad womenfolk and was their hobby craft. Kottans found a place in every Chettinad activity, from ritual and ceremony to daily use. These baskets are gaining great popularity both as packaging for gifts as well as in a range of contemporary home accessories and even palm leaf jewellery. Experimentation in using natural dye has resulted in a whole new range of subtle earthy shades that are as exquisite as they are eco-friendly.

The M.Rm.Rm Cultural Foundation supports research and documentation of languishing crafts, textiles and architecture. The Foundation works towards empowering women through training in regional crafts.

Launching Whitewater

2009-08-29T20:02:00.002+05:30

dāram launches the Whitewater label, work of Shweta Dhariwal, an Accessory Designer trained at National Institute of Design. Whitewater made its debut in 2008 and today retails from some of the best stores in the country. Inspired by traditional patterning and garmenting techniques, her bags are a decoupage of textiles and techniques – quilting, hand embroidery, textures and patchwork. “For me, the most important thing is the attention to detail. My products are simple, understated and well finished – inside out. They are meant for people who appreciate quality workmanship”, says Shweta.
Her launch collection at dāram features a wide array of bags from casual day bags to elegant evening bags; laptop bags and sleeves, for the lady on the move. Staying true to dāram tradition, all bags are created out of handloom textiles - mashru, kalamkari, south cotton and khadi. Her aesthetics is about adding a third dimension to the fabric by exploring forms and keeping functionality at the core. Instead of following fashion norms, she relies on research and her innate sense of colour. “The idea is to seamlessly integrate the traditional with the contemporary and create fresh expressions”, she explains.

Coming in September

2009-08-22T19:13:00.006+05:30

THREE new exhibitions in September...
1. Chettinad sarees and natural fiber products from MRM foundation, Chennai
Kandanghi Sari from Chettinad in traditional colours of bright yellows, oranges, red and a minimal black, used in a pattern of stripes or checks with broad borders woven in coarse cotton or silk. Range of contemporary home accessories of Kottan, traditional Palmyra basketry of Chettinad decorated with beadwork. and crochet work.
- September 10 - 15

2. Silver jewellery from Lilaras, Chennai
Lilaras, exquisite handcrafted ethnic silver jewellery
- September 17 - 22

3. Home linen from Rehwa, Madhya Pradesh
A unique variety of sheer drapes, cushion covers, bed linen and table linen from subtle shades of white ,gold and silver to vibrant reds ,greens and blues in a creative mix of woven, printed and embroidered textiles.
- September 24 - 29

Kanjeevaram silk & cotton sarees

2009-08-17T16:20:00.002+05:30

From August 20-25, 2009

For an environmental friendly Ganesh Chaturthi

2009-08-10T12:41:00.005+05:30

For a safe and environment friendly Ganesh Chaturthi, dāram along with ecoxist brings to Hyderabad a small number of eco-friendly idols of the elephant lord. Made in Sirsi, Karnataka and Pen, Maharashtra these idols are made from clay that dissolves easily in water and are coloured with non-toxic colors that cause no harm to the environment or to human beings.

the idol from Sirsi

the idol from Pen

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF GANESH CHATURTHI

Source: http://www.e-coexist.com/

To be able to choose the most appropriate ecosensitive solution it is important that we understand the environmental impacts of Ganesh Chaturthi.

These can be summarised to be the following:

1. The water pollution caused by the immersion of Plaster of Paris idols into natural water bodies.
2. The water pollution caused by chemical paints used on these idols.
3. The waste generated by the non biodegradable accessories used during the worship.
4. Noise pollution
5. Traffic congestion
6. Increased consumerism

Amongst these the first two can be partially resolved by a shift to eco sensitive materials and practices.

WATER POLLUTION

The Issue
For some years there has been a growing awareness about the water pollution caused by the immersion of Ganesh idols made out of Plaster of Paris (PoP), in natural water bodies such as lakes, rivers and the sea. PoP is not a naturally occurring material. Plaster of Paris is a calcium sulfate hemi-hydrate : (CaSO4, ½ H2O) derived from gypsum, a calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4 , 2 H2O), by firing this mineral at relatively low temperature and then reducing it to powder. While idols made out of naturally occurring clay (shaadu in Marathi) dissolve within hours of immersion in water, PoP idols may take anywhere between several months to years to fully dissolve. In addition, when chemical paints are used to decorate the idols, these paints contain heavy metals such as mercury and lead, which seep into the water as the idol dissolves.

In Bangalore a study done by the Central Pollution Control Board to assess the impact of immersion of Ganesh idols on the lakes revealed the following:

* Increase in the acid content in the waters.
* The TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) increased by a 100%
* The Dissolved Oxygen content increased during the day due to the agitation of waters during immersion and reduced at night when organic discharge increased.
* The heavy metal content sampling showed an increase in metals such as iron which increased nearly 10 times and the content of copper in the sediments increased by 200 to 300 %.

Possible solutions:
Since the main issue around water pollution has got to do with the idol immersion ritual, several people are now suggesting a slight variation of this ritual to avoid water pollution. These include:

1. Immersing the idol in a water tank constructed by the government, instead of directly into natural water bodies.
2. Using only a natural clay idol and immersing it either in the tank or in a bucket of water at home.
3. Immersing a 'betel nut' which symbolises the idol and reusing the same idol every year.
4. If one is using a PoP idol, simply sprinkling a few drops of water on it as a symbolic immersion and donating the idol to be recycled for the following year.

To see photographs of the situation in Mumbai after immersion visit here
http://www.ultrabrown.com/posts/the-battle-of-kurukshetra

For more details and information
visit ecoexist here

Watch a video of the making of the idols

Reduce, reuse, recycle

2009-08-10T12:29:00.000+05:30

Coming in August

2009-08-07T09:44:00.005+05:30

1) ECOSENSITIVE GANESHAS
- Available from the 10th of August

Completely natural clay idols handmade without using any chemical substances or paints.
Can be immersed in a bucket of water at home as they dissolve easily and the water can be poured into plants or in a garden. From e-coexist in Pune

To read more on related issues click here
Ganesh Chaturthi and the environment

2) HANDLOOM SILK SARIS FROM MASTER CRAFTSMEN OF KANCHIVARAM AND RASIPURAM
-August 20 - 25

Silk saris in delicate cut work in resplendent hues worked up with embellishments that create a wavy pattern.
Ethnic block prints, warli, madhubani paintings in simple pattu silk and cotton.

3) BAGS FROM
- 27th of August onwards

launching the Whitewater brand - a wide collection: casual day bags, elegant evening bags, laptop bags and sleeves, all created out of handloom textiles - mashru, kalamkari, mangalagiri cotton and khadi.

2009-08-01T12:52:00.004+05:30

***
Khadi in natural dyes
Zari Border Mangalgiri Dupattas
Missing thread dupattas without borders
Hand Block Printed (pigment colors) from Sanganeer, Rajasthan
Hand Block Printed (natural colors) from Bhuj, Gujurat
Mud Resist (dabu) Hand Block Printed(natural/chemical colors) from Kaladera, Rajasthan
Crushed dupattas in various colors
***

Kanchipuram Pattu Sarees

2009-07-17T12:09:00.002+05:30

Kanchipuram Pattu sarees from Vasanthi Kalyansundar’s Sri Sai Creations, Chennai

• July 23 – 28, 2009

- Silk and silk-cotton handloom sarees with traditional motifs like the peacock, hamsam, rudraksham and the classic gold temple borders.
- Saris in vibrant oranges, midnight blues, toned oranges and mehendi greens.
- A collection that integrates block printing and handloom weaving

Composting kitchen waste...

2009-07-14T10:27:00.005+05:30

Special demonstrations at dāram...

To convert kitchen waste to wealth and to help keep the city clean

dāram presents a weekend exhibition of terracotta composters for composting wet waste at home.

The composters are brought to Hyderabad by ‘Wastes-Away’ in association with Bangalore based ‘Daily Dump’ that has pioneered these hand crafted composters. Daily Dump helps you manage your household waste and convert it to useful high-quality compost. The Daily Dump products are designed to ensure that you compost at home, conveniently and hygienically.

Demonstrations on the use of these terracotta composters will be held
On
18th & 19th July 2009
and
25th & 26th July 2009

at
dāram, Naik Estate, ICICI Bank Lane, Beside Airport Lane,
Begumpet, Hyderabad – 500016
Tel: +91 40 27765503. Fax: +91 40 27892905.

Timing
3pm to 8pm

Email: daaram.da@gmail.com,
Website: http://daaram.blogspot.com

---

THE GARBAGE PROBLEM IN INDIAN CITIES

Big Indian cities produce 3000 tonnes of waste everyday at the least. Most of this reaches dumps that are illegal. Till our cities get a planned and efficient waste management programme, this situation is likely to continue and even get worse as the population increases and we consume even more.
Individual citizens can help by reducing their individual garbage footprint - by reducing the garbage they generate and in other cases by re-cycling waste. One excellent way of dealing with wet, organic waste like that from the kitchen is to compost it. Waste like this, actually does not need to travel because it contains 60% water. The municipal department thus ends up spending fuel, cartage and labour transporting water!!
Daily Dump allows citizens to help manage this wet waste at home itself, to convert it to useful manure and at the same time reduce the burden on the city’s civic infrastructure.

Website: www.dailydump.org
---

Wastes-Away
Plot 222, Kamalapuri Colony Phase II,
Near IBP Petrol Pump
Hyderabad - 500073
Tel: +91 40 23741932, +91 9886796967
Timing: 10am to 5pm
Email: masood.huda@gmail.com

Pre-Shrunk garments from dāram

2009-07-10T09:29:00.006+05:30

All dāram garments are made from pre-washed and pre-shrunk fabric. These processes ensure that the interlacing warp & weft yarn relaxes to its original length. This ensures that the degree of shrinkage that will occur while washing the garments themselves is minimised.

We offer our customers less than 2% shrinkage (both on length and chest) on all our garments.

Why do fabrics shrink?

In the pre-loom processes of warping and sizing and also on the loom, yarn is stretched and kept taut under tension. Yarns that are woven to form the fabric, when washed for the 1st time, will naturally shrink to its original length, thus causing the shrinkage that is experienced.

Launching BRASS TACKS in Hyderabad

2009-07-08T08:23:00.001+05:30

Gift vouchers from daram

2009-06-30T10:14:00.001+05:30

Introducing - Gift vouchers from daram

A film on the cotton handloom process

2009-06-29T15:43:00.003+05:30

For
Dastkar Andhra's short film on the cotton handloom production process
visit
http://www.dastkarandhra.org/handloom-process.htm

Coming soon...

2009-06-26T11:27:00.004+05:30

A Chennai special in July 2009
Two exciting collections…

a) Brass Tacks, Madras’ Summer Collection 2009
Western wear for women in Cotton handlooms

• July 9, 2009 onwards

About Brass Tacks: One of the primary goals at Brass Tacks is to use traditional textile crafts and to transform these fabrics into garments that are contemporary and urban. By re-articulating these fabrics as modern, cosmopolitan pieces, and reaching out to a wider customer base, Brass Tacks provides a greater demand for weavers, dyers and printers who produce quality work.
www.brasstacksmadras.com

b) Kanchipuram Pattu sarees from Vasanthi Kalyansundar’s Sri Sai Creations, Chennai

• July 23 – 28, 2009

- Silk and silk-cotton handloom sarees with traditional motifs like the peacock, hamsam, rudraksham and the classic gold temple borders.
- Saris in vibrant oranges, midnight blues, toned oranges and mehendi greens.
- A collection that integrates block printing and handloom weaving
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dāram, Hyderabad’s exclusive cotton handloom garment store works towards strengthening traditional weavers and small farmers.

dāram, Naik Estate, ICICI Bank Lane, Beside Airport Lane,
Begumpet, Hyderabad – 500016
Tel: +91 40 27765503. Fax: +91 40 27892905.
Timing: 11am to 8pm
Wednesday Closed

Email: daram.da@gmail.com
Website: http://daaram.blogspot.com/

Silver jewellery from Jaipur

2009-06-15T09:25:00.003+05:30

Kora - Off White garments for the summer

2009-05-14T09:25:00.002+05:30

SUMMER SPECIAL:

dāram’s special range of kora (off-white) kurtas for women in varied textures and weaves from Andhra’s rich cotton handloom traditions.

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the cotton

the yarn

the kurta

Tangail Bengal Cotton sarees in daram

2009-04-21T17:18:00.001+05:30

In April 2009

Summer special range of Tangail Bengal Cotton handloom sarees and dress materials

2009-04-18T10:28:00.004+05:30

For the 1st time in Hyderabad,

dāram brings a special summer range of hand woven and hand block printed Tangail Bengal Cotton sarees by Weaver’s Studio, Kolkata.

The Tangail weave uses very fine quality of 100 x 200 counts cottons. The speciality of the sarees is the intricate border that is named after the pattern that is created - Bhomra paar ( Fine mesh beehive pattern), Aansh paar ( Fish Scale pattern), Chatai paar (mat pattern), Terchhi paar (Diagonal pattern).
The collection also includes stitched and unstiched cotton salwar kurta sets with matching dupattas in a wide range of hand block prints.

Dates: April 18 to April 31, 2009
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