Nita Ambani once again showcased the beauty of traditional Indian craftsmanship as she wore an exquisite Ashavali brocade saree to celebrate the first anniversary of Swadesh. The heritage outfit, which nearly took five months to hand-weave, showcases Gujarat’s centuries-old textile tradition and the complex artistry of the indian artisans.
Created by Royal Brocades, a label founded by third-generation weaver and textile revivalist Paresh Patel, the saree showcases the richness of Gujarat’s weaving legacy. The striking magenta pink drape features elaborate gold and maroon detailing, bringing together the traditional motifs and luxurious craftsmanship.
A Five-Month Journey of Traditional Weaving
The Ashavali saree was crafted by two artisans in Ridrol village, Gujarat. Its creation involved several intricate stages, including dyeing, warping and weaving, using a traditional jala loom. This specialised technique allows weavers to create detailed figurative patterns that require exceptional skill and patience.
The Ashavali weaving tradition dates back to the ninth century and is associated with the historic Ashaval kingdom, located near present-day Ahmedabad. The saree celebrates this legacy through its elaborate patterns and motifs inspired by traditional Indian art.
One of its most unique features is the hathi mor jangla design, incorporating elephants and peacocks. The saree also showcases the paisley motifs and geometric lattice patterns, while its border features parrots arranged in a design inspired by meenakari jewellery work. The pallu is adorned with a symbolic tree of life motif accompanied by decorative vases, which adds another layer of cultural significance to the creation.
Manish Malhotra Completes the Heritage Look
Nita Ambani paired the elaborate Ashavali saree with a custom blouse designed by Manish Malhotra. The styling complemented the rich brocade while allowing the traditional weave to remain the main focus of the outfit.
Her appearance also showcases the philosophy behind Swadesh, an initiative dedicated to celebrating India’s indigenous crafts and supporting the artisans who preserve them.
By choosing a saree which required five months of dedicated craftsmanship, Nita Ambani highlighted the time, precision and expertise behind India’s handloom traditions. Her latest look serves as a reminder that heritage textiles remain relevant in modern luxury fashion, bringing regional artistry to a wider audience while preserving the generations of traditional knowledge.
