#LocalWaliDiwali: Set Up Your Diwali Dining Table with Ajrakh Table Linen from Pune’s Varsaca Store

Diwali parties are something else! Whether it’s a small gathering of loved ones or a taash party with a bunch of friends, being a good host for Diwali includes setting your home for it. And one place the party ultimately convenes at, besides the bar, is the dining table full of delicious treats. People spend a ton on getting the latest and trendy table linen like table covers and runners, that get stored away and forgotten about. So what if we tell you, this Diwali, you can bring home Ajrakh table linen? Varsaca from Pune offers a bunch of table linen with the beloved Ajrakh print art to help you set up your table for Diwali parties, really hatke!

#LocalWaliDiwali

Local Samosa’s #LocalWaliDiwali series puts a spotlight on India’s rich heritage of arts, crafts, and handicrafts, along with the local mom-and-pop stores that have been serving their communities for generations. This initiative celebrates the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, focusing on the most promising local stores that are at the heart of their cities, known for reviving traditional Indian crafts across various categories.

This Diwali, through this series, we are committed to showcasing the best local artists, craftsmen, and small businesses that preserve Indian heritage through their products. By putting these gems on the map, we aim to connect them with people beyond their city, giving these local businesses the visibility, boost, and clientele they deserve.

Historical Roots and Craftsmanship of Ajrakh

Ajrakh printing, believed to derive its name from the Sanskrit word "A-jharat" meaning "that which does not fade", is a traditional craft originating from the Sindh region of Pakistan, with significant historical roots in India. The craft, using indigo dye, was practised by the Khatri community, who migrated to Kutch from Sindh about 400 years ago. Ajrakh fabrics feature geometric patterns and vibrant colours, influenced by Sufism and nature, and were historically used for shawls and cotton garments. The intricate printing process involves multiple steps, including soaking the fabric in natural solutions, and using carved wooden blocks for double-sided printing. While modern methods have streamlined production, they risk compromising the artistry and quality inherent in traditional Ajrakh craftsmanship. Ajrakh, the craft of resist-dyeing from Kutch, Gujarat, received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2024.

The Modern Revival: Ajrakh Table Linen

Alia Bhatt wore a Ajrakh saree recently and that created buzz on social media. But do we really ever wear Ajrakh sarees anymore? Ruffles and corsets have taken over and ready-to-wear sarees are the norm. In this wave of trending and fleeting fashion, not many would go for traditional Indian heritage sarees.

Did you know that the earliest accounts of tablecloths in history were related to a poet named Martial and dated all the way back to 103 AD? It was speculated that they were believed to have been used to sop up spills and keep the tables organised and clean. Today, come the festive season, most people jump onto e-commerce websites to grab the first set of table linen that screams “festive”. However, some brands are preserving Indian heritage fabrics by giving them a new category to flourish in. Table covers and runners that have beautiful Ajrakh prints have been introduced to those who are keen on exploring new ways to hold on to traditions and heritage. So this Diwali, give your dining table a makeover with traditional Indian heritage fabrics like Ajrakh and let the festivities begin!

Varsaca

Varsha and Amruta started Varsaca to create beautiful and meaningful living spaces. What began as a focus on home decor grew into 'Vah! by Varsaca,' expanding into lifestyle design. The name combines the idea of brilliance with the warmth of home. Their sunflower logo symbolises their commitment to quality and the idea that each piece tells a story, helping people express themselves through their spaces. Their range of Ajrakh table covers and table runners is not just unique, but also affordable. The use of this treasure handblock print as a functional product is something that’s commendable. The product range starts at Rs. 650 and goes up to Rs. 1,200. The brand’s table cover made from cotton showcases traditional Ajrakh patterns combined with a modern patchwork design. They deliver across the country as well as ship internationally.

Where: Navi Peth Sadashiv Peth, 39, Shivam, Phatak Baug, 411030 Pune, Maharashtra

Contact: 7755920929

Want us to feature any local stores or artists who are preserving and rejuvenating Indian arts, crafts and handicrafts? Then write to us at content@localsamosa.com!