Siyahi, one of India’s most recognised and respected literary consultancies, continues with its endeavour to understand and explore Indian literature. After creating and directing the Jaipur Literature Festival in 2007 and 2008, Siyahi – in association with Verve – is set to present its next venture under the name Mantles of Myth – Narratives in Indian Textiles. Jaipur has been selected as the venue for this event, which is scheduled between the 13th and 15th of December 2008.

With a unique viewpoint, Mantles of Myth aims to highlight the link between India’s literature and its textiles. Depiction of tales through weaves, prints, paintings and embroideries is a large part of India’s heritage. Religious or mythological scenes through visuals or text embody local cultures, beliefs and craft – each distinct from the other – verbal and oral literary traditions that are passed down through generations.

The three-day conference will be an amalgamation of noted international textile experts, writers, poets, musicians,performers and narrators – an interactive forum for discussing and realising the importance of preserving this aspect of Indian culture. Speakers will enlighten on the origins and evolution of regional narrative textiles and their present status.

From the Chamba Rumal of Himachal Pradesh to the Vrindavani Vastra of Assam, Mantles of Myth will present a comprehensive list. Internationally acclaimed writer and historian William Dalrymple will speak on the Bhopas of Rajasthan, with reference to their Pabuji ki Phad (scrolled textile paintings). Author Devdutt Pattanaik will present his view on the attire of Indian gods and goddesses. Dr Alka Pande, author of several books on Indian art history and erotica, will narrate the story of Phulkari, the traditional embroidery of Punjab.

Highlighting North-Eastern textiles, journalist-writer Mamang Dai and poet and Tripura royal Pragya Deb Burman will unravel the tales, customs and traditions associated with their weaves. Danseuse Mallika Sarabhai and her son Revanta will present a performance based on the myths recounted in Kalamkari. Former Samata Party president Jaya Jaitly will speak on Devanagari textiles. Museum curator Susan Bean will discuss the genius of Gandhi and role of khadi in the Indian freedom movement and ever since independence.

Entrepreneur Sangita Kathiwada, along with designers Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Manish Arora will reflect on the con–temporary application of Indian narrative textiles and their possibilities in global de–sign. Other speakers and participants at the event include eminent names like former professor Lord Meghnad Desai, painter and author Skye Morrison, textile expert and author Paola Manfredi, designer Ritu Kumar and art historian B N Goswamy.

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