Five things that caught my attention at The India Story 2016

When I received the invite of The India Story 2016, I was excited to visit this as it is a celebration of the best of Indian handicraft. Art, Music, clothes, upcycled décor, handmade jewellery and regional cuisine, it was all about celebrating the rich heritage, the cultural variety and beauty of India.

What is The India Story ?

The India Story (TIS), launched last year, is a design exposition for products that are exclusively Indian in make and aesthetics, a showcase bringing together the very best of contemporary Indian Design - from the definitive names of our country to newer voices and artists from all aesthetic fields. In keeping with this spirit, the tagline for this year’s TIS is “Revive. Reinvent. Relove.”

Here are a few things that caught my attention at TIS 2016:

Upcycled Decor by Sarthak and Sahil

 

1. Upcycled decor by Sahil & Sarthak: This one was my favourite at The India Story 2016. The vibrant colours and the innovative ideas caught my attention instantly. They surely have amazing things to flaunt especially their lovely lights made with glass bangles - an amazing DIY idea that can add glamour to any boring corner of the room. They also have recliners, wall mirrors, armchairs and swings made with unused fabric leftovers procured from mills. And guess what they don't look boring at all. These are amazing things you would want to indulge in when setting up your comfort zones. One such statement piece and your room will have a character of its own.

Lights made of Glass Bangles

Lovely cushions in bright colours

Beautiful Mirrors

2. Upcycled, handmade jewellery from Junk : You must check them out if you are a lover of accessories. Earrings, neckpieces, statement rings - you name it and you get it in bright colours adorned with mirrors and simple embroidery that can jazz up any outfit. I am too tempted to pick up some of their stuff especially their earrings and their glass cocktail rings. All Instagram stalking done and to-buy lists done ! Its inspiring to see how they have used simple weaves and designs and carved them into lovely pieces that will complement both Indian and western wear. It gave me such boho-chic goals.Loved all the designs and the mirrorwork :)

Beautiful earrings made with simple embroidery and glass work

I loved this ring :)

3. Swings from The Retryrement plan : Colours and more colours for your room is what I found at this kiosk. One swing from them and you have a happy reading corner in your balcony. I could never imagine that so many colours could be added to one’s room. Next time I am redoing my home or setting up a new one, I will definitely look at both The Retryement plan and Sahil & Sarthak to give my home some happy colours J

Aren't these the best options for your living room or your balcony

4.Desktop Items from Varnam : They had some lovely desktop items. Minimalistic designs, modular and creative defined their work. From earring hangers to Diwali décor, they had some extremely cute things on display.

5. Quirky stuff at The Kulture Shop: Coffee mugs, letter pads, envelopes, book marks – they have some amazing stuff with some great artwork on them. Again bright, quirky and creative, they have lovely stuff for your work desk.

Quirky stuff in happy colours

 

I also heard great things about Baori and their specially curated Rajasthani cuisine, however I didn't get time to try it out myself. If you are talking food, Zomato definitely cannot be far behind. They had a special booth at India Story for all the food enthusiasts.

Visiting India Story was an enriching experience. It was lovely to see a bunch of creative people and start-ups working hard to revive Indian art and culture in a manner that appeals to the contemporary Indian. Kudos to The Neotia Arts Initiative for painstakingly curating the best and giving them a platform J