Bengaluru: Antique textile enthusiast Uma Rao’s private collection of handwoven heirloom saris will go on public display at Pracheen, a special showcase organised by Aadyam Handwoven, an initiative of the Aditya Birla Group. The exhibition will be held at Sabha Blr, Kamaraj Road, on August 23, featuring 23 rare saris that reflect India’s rich weaving heritage.

A six-decade journey of collecting

At 79, Uma Rao has spent over 60 years building her collection of rare handwoven saris, some of which date back more than a century. She says her passion for textiles began in her 20s and continues to this day. “I started my collection in my 20s and I hope to give it to a museum one day,” she shares.

The oldest piece in her collection is a 150-year-old Patan Patola, a double ikat sari crafted with natural dyes. She discovered it during a visit to Patan in Gujarat, where a local museum owner introduced her to the rare piece.

Highlights from the collection

The showcase will present saris representing diverse weaving traditions and cultural histories. Among them are:

  • Gadwal cotton sari – Uma notes that such cotton variants are no longer woven in Gadwal today.
  • Sirpur sari – a sentimental piece that once belonged to her mother.
  • Mysore brocade with gandaberunda motif – woven on a loom set up by the Mysore royal family, featuring the state’s royal insignia.
  • Molakalmuru sari – crafted on a loom established by Uma’s mother, Sudha Reddy, in 1954.

Each piece reflects not just textile artistry but also the personal stories and legacies tied to Rao’s family and travels.

Preserving the art of handwoven saris

Uma believes handwoven saris with natural dyes hold timeless appeal. “I have always loved saris and I find the beauty of naturally dyed handwoven saris so appealing,” she says. By showcasing her collection at Pracheen, she hopes to raise awareness about the importance of preserving India’s weaving traditions for future generations.

Conclusion

The one-day exhibition offers Bengalureans a rare opportunity to witness living textile history through Rao’s carefully curated collection. Beyond fashion, the showcase underlines the cultural significance of handloom weaving and its role in shaping India’s heritage.