JD School of Design powered by JD Institute of Fashion Technology participated in the 33rd Baltic House Theatre Festival at St. Petersburg, Russia. This year, the festival took a unique turn, reaching beyond European traditions to showcase a vibrant world from the East from 11 th to 14 th October 2023. Theatres from India, China, Iran, and the ethnic theatres of Russian national republics dazzled the audience with a rich tapestry of performances. Amidst this cultural spectacle, the institute stood out as a beacon of creativity. JDSD curated a narrative around innovation and sustainability in Indian textiles through an exhibition and fashion show. This offered the global audience a glimpse into the nation’s cultural tapestry.

JD School of Design at the 33rd Baltic House Theatre Festival showcases India’s vibrant textiles on an international stage.

The exhibition included:

1. Paithani Saree from Maharashtra
Paithani sarees are known for their exquisite silk fabric and intricate zari (metallic thread) work. They often feature vibrant colours and peacock motifs, making them a prized possession for Maharashtrian women.

2. Kasavu Saree from Kerala
Kasavu sarees are traditional white sarees with golden borders, typically worn during special occasions and festivals in Kerala. Their simplicity and elegance are a hallmark of Kerala’s cultural attire.

3. Kanjivaram Saree from Tamil Nadu
Kanjivaram sarees are renowned for their rich silk fabric, vibrant colours, and intricate zari work. They are often characterized by contrasting borders and pallus (the endpiece of the sari), making them a popular choice for South Indian weddings.

4. Eri Silk Saree from Assam
Eri silk sarees are woven from silk produced by eri silkworms native to Assam. They are known for their natural texture, durability, and unique motifs inspired by Assamese culture and nature.

5. Tant Saree from West Bengal
The red and white Tant saree is a classic Bengali saree. Tant sarees are lightweight and comfortable, making them ideal for daily wear. They often feature simple and elegant designs, perfect for the hot and humid climate of West Bengal.

6. Kutchi Saree from Gujarat
Kutchi sarees are a reflection of the vibrant and artistic culture of Gujarat. They are characterized by intricate mirrorwork, embroidery, and a riot of colours. These sarees are a symbol of the rich craftsmanship of the Kutch region.

7. Durbar: A collection inspired by Mysore Palace’s stained glass architecture.

Each of these sarees represents the rich cultural diversity of India and is cherished for its unique craftsmanship, motifs, and historical significance in the respective regions. These intricate weaves intrigued the visitors who were in awe of the Indian textiles, which are a significant part of Indian culture.

This reflected not just craftsmanship but also stories inspired by the diversity of Indian traditions.

The global spotlight intensified on October 14th with a fashion show that brought together young Russian and renowned Indian models. This fusion of traditional and modern Indian textiles became a beacon of cultural exchange. The institute’s gratitude extended to the festival organizers and curators, acknowledging the invaluable experience gained on this international stage.

The fashion show collections included:

Agna: A tribute to Navagunjara, symbolizing strength and wisdom.

Memoir: Celebrating the craftsmanship of Northeast India’s weavers.

Pudhupippu: Honoring Tamil Nadu’s endangered Bhavani Jamakalam craft.

The showcase by JD School of Design received immense appreciation from visitors, with a special mention of JD students’ outstanding works. Mr. Kumar Gaurav, Consul General of India in Russia, graced the event as the Chief Guest, adding prestige to JDSD’s remarkable showcase.

In a gesture of gratitude, JDSD extended special thanks to Mr. Sergei Shub, Director of the Festival, Ms. Polina Vasilyeva, Festival Coordinator, and Ms. Viktoria Palekhova, Admin, for their support and organization. A heartfelt acknowledgment was also directed to Ms. Anita Mithra, Curator for Indian participants, for including JD in this cultural extravaganza.

The prestigious festival was an opportunity for students from JD School of Design to gain international exposure and present their creations to a global audience. The collaboration between India and Russia stands as a testament to how art and design can bridge cultures and create lasting connections.