Discover the Joy of Gifting with Timeless Indian Artforms from Swadesh

Swadesh by Reliance Foundation presents a vibrant festive showcase featuring iconic regional crafts from across the country, reimagined through exquisite craftsmanship. Set within the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, the latest chapter of NMACC’s India-inspired art and craft exhibit highlights the regal beauty of Rajasthan’s Pichwai Paintings and Kundan Jadau, the rich weaves of Bandhani and Patola from Gujarat, the intricate patterns of Silver Filigree from Odisha and Telangana, and the sculpted elegance of Brass Nakshi from Uttar Pradesh. This edition also features handmade candles by Sunrise Candles from Maharashtra, exemplifying how art empowers communities.  

Here’s an inside look at the new pavilions:  

Brass Nakshi from Uttar Pradesh 

In the heart of Uttar Pradesh, Moradabad keeps alive a centuries-old dialogue between metal and maker. Its signature Brass Nakshi work, with elaborate hand-engraved designs etched into glowing surfaces, transforms everyday objects into art. Inspired by floral and geometric motifs, each detail reflects generations of skill refined over time. Blending tradition with contemporary style, artisans create vases, trays, and lamps that are both beautiful and functional. 

Patola Weaves from North Gujarat 

Woven with remarkable precision and patience, Patola is one of India’s most revered textile arts, rooted in the heritage of Gujarat. This centuries-old double ikat weaving – rooted in the Sanskrit word pattakula (silk fabric) – is practiced in Patan, Rajkot, Surendranagar, and Jamnagar. Known for its vibrant colours, symmetrical geometric patterns, and mirror-image designs on both sides of the fabric, each sari is handwoven with complex resist-dye techniques requiring months of skillful work. The culturally symbolic Bhat motifs and lustrous silk make Patola not just clothing, but heirloom art – an enduring symbol of Indian craftsmanship.

Kundan Jadau from Rajasthan 

Jadau, a centuries-old jewellery-making technique, embeds uncut stones like Polki or glass directly into 24-karat gold without any adhesives. Originating in the Mughal era and perfected in Rajasthan’s royal ateliers, particularly Jaipur, it symbolises regal heritage and fine craftsmanship. Each piece is handcrafted with precision as softened gold is shaped and engraved to securely hold the stones. The result is opulent, organic jewellery often passed down as heirlooms. Today, Jadau thrives in earrings, necklaces, rings, and more, preserving a timeless artistic legacy. 

Bandhani from Gujarat 

Recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Bandhani is a tie-and-dye tradition from Gujarat, known for its meticulous technique and cultural resonance. Practised primarily by the Khatri community in Kutch and Saurashtra, it involves hand-tying thousands of tiny knots (bheendi) before immersing the fabric in vibrant shades of red, yellow, green, blue, and black. Untying reveals textured patterns – from delicate dots to intricate figures. Tracing back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, Bandhani thrives as a generational craft with women artisans at its heart, featuring traditional styles like Khombhi, Gharchola, Chandrakhani, Shikari, Chowkidaar, and Ambadaal.  

Sunrise Candles from Maharashtra 

Sunrise Candles from Mahabaleshwar is a beacon of inclusive entrepreneurship. Founded in 1994 by Dr. Bhavesh Chandubhai Bhatia with just one mould and five kilograms of wax, it has empowered over 10,000 visually impaired and differently-abled artisans. Each diya and scented candle is handcrafted with care, reflecting lives transformed through skill and resilience. Supported by the Reliance Foundation’s Drishti initiative, Sunrise Candles offers sustainable livelihoods and helps restore dignity – lighting the way for a community once overlooked. 

Pichwai Paintings from Rajasthan 

Rooted in the temple town of Nathdwara, Rajasthan, Pichwai painting is an age-old art form dedicated to depicting the life and legends of Lord Krishna in his child form, Shrinathji. Originally created as ornate temple backdrops, these hand-painted cloth artworks feature devotional motifs – lotus flowers, cows, peacocks, and festive scenes – that celebrate Krishna’s world. Made with natural stone pigments, fine brushwork, and gold leaf, each piece is a blend of faith and precision. Since the 17th century, Pichwai has evolved into an elaborate art form where spiritual storytelling meets exquisite craftsmanship. 

Silver Smithing from Odisha & Telangana 

Dating back to the 10th century, this delicate and time-honoured craft flourished in the regions of Cuttack in Odisha and Karimnagar in Telangana. Known as silver filigree, it was refined during the Mughal era with Persian and European influences, and is defined by its lace-like intricacy. Artisans shape 92.5% pure silver wires into graceful motifs that adorn jewellery, decorative items, and ceremonial pieces. Passed down through generations, these traditional techniques preserve the craft’s authenticity, precision, and cultural pride.