“Sustainability is very important in modern times. During the Indus Valley Civilization, women used to wear three pieces of cloth to cover their bodies. This style has now become the sari and blouse that is worn by modern Indian women. Anything unstitched is sustainable and can be worn for many years. Stitched clothing items have less shelf life. Unstitched apparel like sari or dhoti can be worn for a long time and hence is good for the environment” said designer Dalia B Mitra in an exclusive chat with The Kolkata Mail correspondent Priyanka Dutta.

The designer highlighted the new offerings of her brand Dashobhuja:

• She has used her weavers to create more apparel using block prints. This will enable block printing artists to survive.
• Emphasis has been given more on menswear this time. Dhuti, Punjabi, bottomwear, and designer shirts are the new additions this time.

Her garments have gone to Oslo, Norway for the upcoming Durga Puja. 128 people of all ages will wear her saris, dhuti-Punjabi, lehengas, and so on.

Customization is available for the dresses for the male and female patrons.

She has been making Uttariyos for the Durga Puja committee members as well.

The designer revealed that she will be going to her home in Midnapore to celebrate Durga Puja.

She is also working with two or three families in that area who are skilled in Patachitra. Dalia Mitra has been trying to support them. Those artisans have been drawing on cups, and umbrellas on the advice of the designer. Earlier, they were working on their own and the quality was not maintained. As a result, their earning was not much.

Now with her effort, the products made by them are going to foreign places and are getting their due appreciation.

She has also started making chiffon scarfs using block prints. This can be worn with Western attire and will make for amazing gifts.

So if you are planning to buy something new and unique this Durga Pujo, head straight to Dashobhuja.

Video link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rT3qT2lDK5I

Priyanka Dutta