An Ode to Tangail weaves
“An Ode to Tangail Weaves” was launched as a celebration of the glorious tradition of Tangail saris and its historical journey and metamorphosis over the decades of its existence in Bengal. Launched jointly by The Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh and Bengal Art Lounge, the exhibition ran from 1 to 4 October. The effort to re-instill the rightful status of 'taant' in the minds of the Bengali fashionista was a definite success when it came to highlighting this beautiful tradition in both its past glory and its present adaptability.
The exhibition, inaugurated by Minister for Cultural Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Asaduzzaman Noor, showcased a collection of Tangail saris darting back to the 1950s demonstrating the timelessness of this fabric. On the contemporary side there was a collection of saris portraying the evolution in patterns and styles that this material has undergone throughout recent history.
There was a real life display of the weaving process of a 'taant' sari in action, with a weaver meticulously working on a piece using the loom and a variety of threads.
The highlight of the event was the fashion show displaying the dimensions of 'taant' through the ages – from the traditional saris, shalwar kameez sets and kurtas to the quirky skirts, pants and tops. The designers of FDCB worked to create ensembles with Tangail handloom to unveil the potential of 'taant' fabric in the interest of the future of Bangladesh's fashion textiles. This display truly brought to life the effort and craftsmanship that goes behind every sari, no matter how simple or how intricate the sari may be.
Off the catwalk, it was heartening to see the guests loyally sport traditional Bangladeshi saris themselves, which definitely added aesthetically to the ambience of the exhibition. Traditional 'taant' saris, cotton based shalwar kameez sets, kurtas, coats, pants and other clothing items were on display and for sale. The silhouettes of the display were unique and varied, but one thing the pieces all had in common was the homage to 'taant' and Bangladeshi designs.
With the participation of designers such as Maheen Khan, Biplob Saha, Chondona Dewan, Shaibal Saha, Shabana Ali, Maria Islam, Kuhu, Emdad Haque, Farah Anjum Bari, Lipi Khandaker, Shahrukh Amin and Nawshin Khair and the presence of Her Excellency Hanne Fugel Eskajaer, Ambassador, Royal Danish Embassy as the special guest added to the success of the event.
In recent years, the Tangail 'taant' industry has experienced encouraging growth. Amongst the many handloom fabrics, Tangail 'taant' has retained its distinct identity and popularity both at home and abroad. The practice of the traditional format of its design and weave in lengths of six (or seven) yards with fine patterned borders is kept alive by its devoted artisans. The light, airy fabric balanced with a well-woven ground stands as a testimony to the finesse of the weaver's creation.
The event was very important for two reasons: to remind us of our rich fashion heritage, and to revive the appeal of 'taant' among the young and old alike. Due to influences from other cultures, sometimes our traditional weaves are sadly given the back seat but the event showed how with the proper exposure this art-form can retain its splendour and keep up with changing times.
Photo: Tutul Nesar
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