This winter brings an added attraction for those who wish to spend the season in Goa. A relationship of years between the House of Mahendra Doshi, known for his exquisite pieces of restored furniture and Nilofer and Reshad Rustomjee of RUST Goa has resulted in the concept of a show Back to Goa that highlights the area’s rich heritage, with a collection of exquisitely restored furniture and artifacts. Continuing the tradition of the late Mahendra Doshi, are his family members, Anand Gandhi, Chiki Doshi and Asim Doshi who have worked closely under him for two decades and have imbibed his love and passion for furniture collection and restoration.

Mahendra Doshi’s journey of love and passion began 40 years ago. His discerning eye that discovered the merits of a piece of furniture, however rundown, was legendary. He assessed each piece individually before embarking upon a detailed restoration process. For restoration, each piece was completely taken apart and refitted using its original craftsmanship and technique. During the finishing stage, again, the piece was evaluated regarding the finish and patina. A photographic record was maintained of the arduous process. Doshi had a particular love of Goan creativity expressed through its rich heritage of furniture and art. He painstakingly built up a large collection of furniture from all over India, from which the Goan Collection is being showcased.

The collection includes pieces like sofas, cabinets, tables, chests, chest of drawers, bureaus, dining tables, beds and a variety of artifacts. The highlights of the exhibition would certainly be a Goan pallenquin, a four-poster bed in rosewood and Mahendra Doshi’s personal carved Goan folding chair. Surely a treat for the senses!

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