Sunday, September 16, 2001		Article

THE one-stop wonder called Bridal Asia, took shape only because someone dared to dream. When Divya Gurwara conjured up a vision it seemed far-fetched, but with persistent sincerity today it easily bears the mantle of excellence…… and all because she wanted to add the necessary dazzle to the institution of marriage and all that it entails….. because she wanted to touch every tentative step with magic as it crosses the symbolic threshold….. because she wanted only the best for the bride! In her words:"Marriage is a cherished occasion with immense bonhomie, colour, festivities and deep irrevocable bonds, where every bride is special and deserves to be lavished with nothing but the best. And Bridal Asia is my humble tribute to all brides-to-be, who are embarking on this magical journey."

Bridal Asia will showcase the top brass, selected unerringly not only from all over India but from across the subcontinent, from September 29, to October 1, at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. The three-day exhibition metamorphoses into being the largest umbrella of trousseau collections ever conceived. It seeks to display a cross-culture of aesthetics, with an endeavour to present a flavour that is truly Asia. Bridal Asia was planned to fill an existent void and fuse indigenous style with international substance under one roof. From sparkling diamonds to earthy gold and kundan, exquisite jewellery is accompanied with the finest in clothing that varies with immense ease from jamdani to zardozi. Unique accessories embellished with contemporary ideas as also traditional piquancy, team up with unusual linen, artifacts, other home furnishings and mesmerising contours of sterling silver…. And all this with a price range that is diverse and suitable to all.

The passion for the finest in clothes, ornaments and other accessories for home and interiors has remained perennial and when it comes to bridal wear the choices are immense.

Clothes: From Bangladesh emerge two outstanding designers, Maheen Khan and Reena Latif, with their superb naqshikantha and jamdani. Reena’s forte also extends beyond the ordinary as her fine chikankari on malmal rings in a bygone era even as her stylised men’s wear marks the prevalent trends.

While Yoland showcases bold floral appliques on sarees and fusion wear from Sri Lanka, a peep into the traditional talent from Pakistan is offered too—Karachi presents Mehreen Noorani and Faiza Samee with her block prints coupled with zardozi. But taking centrestage is revivalist Rizwan Beyg whose fetish for detail stands him in superior stead with his peers. Lahore offers a slice of its culture by way of Nilofer Shahid’s elaborate bridal as well as pret line embellished with real gemstones. Also, Hassan Sheheryar’s collection will be displayed at Bridal Asia for the first time.

Last though never the least, India’s diverse range adds the final touch to complete the Asian flavour—fine Kashmiri jamavar matches Ritu Kumar’s superior weaves and prints along with J.J.Vallaya’s stylistic glamour. Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna keep up the balance with their trendy options for the not-to-be-forgotten bridegroom! Ashima-Leena Singh add colour to the event. Indian Handicraft presents an enviable collection of embroideries from all over India. Vinita Pittie from Hyderabad brings forth a refined Mughal collection and from further South come Deepika Govind and Jyoti with their distinct brands. Payal Singhal from Mumbai encompasses the spirit of Maharashtra and Usha Govind Prasad rings in the essence of yesteryear with unusual chikankari from Lucknow. Mun Mun Nath from Assam compiles a stunning collection of clothes and home furnishings fashioned from embellished Assamese silk. In a bid to promote young talent, Bridal Asia promotes four qualified individuals with promising work —Pooja Batra, Nidhi Jain, Ekta Singh and Nandita Marwaha.

Jewellery: An integral part of the trousseau, jewellery from every region finds a perfect representation at Bridal Asia. The credit for Calcutta’s intricate jali and fine filigree collection goes to Nemi Chand Bamalwa and Yogendra Durlabhji from Jaipur walks away with accolades for his fabulous selection of emeralds.

Vithal Das of Hyderabad needs little introduction—his regal jewels speak for themselves! Jaipur casts its spell with M.P. Rawat’s eclectic kundan, Mumbai’s TBZ Nirmal Zaveri’s brand new collection showcased for the very first time along with Minawala and Kothari’s classic contemporary diamond jewellery. Delhi boasts of an amazing variety too with Rakyan’s, bringing forth a classy selection. An outstanding balance is maintained by Ashwini Kumar’s Mehrasons with their authentic new line.

Linen and accessories: One can add pizzazz to home and self with appropriate accessories. And taking a cue, Bridal Asia brings together a host of names that spell class. ‘Window Passions’ by Rajeev and Amita Kanwar has an amazing range for interiors in traditional antique manner and Dolly Sood’s style speaks a completely contemporary language. Amar Agarwal depicts many ways for utilising swarovski embellishments—from the palm to the drapes, it’s crystal craze all the way! While Nikhil Verma and Shivani Somani’s home accessories add elan to the surroundings, Ganga Expressions goes totally international with some renowned brands like Lladro of Spain and Daum of France under their wing. Madhavi Sonawala adds a jewel to the walls with her gem-studded Tanjore paintings and silver reflects originality in its contours with Ishpinder Kochar and Chanda Poddar’s creations. With all this and much more, the bride is ready to put her best foot forward but certainly not without Rinaldi’s shoes and bags and Sumitra Bakliwal’s bags and matching stoles!

If contemplating trousseau shopping what better time than now to visit Bridal Asia which showcases some of the best names from the subcontinent that have flocked together for a stupendous experience? India, with its diverse cultural mix has much to offer and Bridal Asia simplifies the mammoth task of picking out the best by offering all that a bride would ever want. Do not miss out on it.
— Services International