Textile researcher and revivalist Vinay Narkar will present Dakkhan Ko Chira, a two-day exhibition celebrating the lost textile traditions of the Deccan, at the Crafts Council of Telangana (CCT Spaces), Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, on 14–15 August 2026. The exhibition brings together recreated historical sarees, Maratha-style paintings, jewellery and architectural references based on more than a decade of research into the region’s weaving heritage. The exhibition will be inaugurated by author, textile expert and art collector Anju Poddar on 14 August and is open to the public with free entry.
A decade-long textile revival
The exhibition reflects more than ten years of research undertaken by Vinay Narkar to document and recreate forgotten textile traditions of the Deccan. Through archival studies, historical references and field research, Narkar has assembled a collection that explores the evolution of regional sarees once worn across the Deccan.
His studio has recreated several historical textiles, while also presenting newly identified weave traditions that have remained largely undocumented in contemporary textile discourse.
Exhibition combines textiles with Maratha paintings
Alongside the textile collection, visitors will encounter Maratha-style paintings depicting many of the recreated sarees. The artworks serve as historical references while illustrating how these garments were worn and appreciated during different periods.
The exhibition also explores related aspects of Deccan culture, including:
- Historical saree traditions
- Maratha-style miniature paintings
- Traditional jewellery
- Architectural influences
- Textile motifs and regional design vocabulary
Rediscovering forgotten Deccan heritage
According to the organisers, several sarees featured in Dakkhan Ko Chira were already known to scholars, while others have emerged through recent discoveries during Narkar’s research journeys.
Some of the pieces have been reconstructed directly from historical references, allowing visitors to experience textile traditions that have disappeared from regular production. Together, the recreated textiles and accompanying artworks aim to present a broader visual history of the Deccan’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Hosted by the Crafts Council of Telangana
The exhibition will be hosted at the Crafts Council of Telangana, a non-profit organisation that works to preserve and promote traditional Indian crafts through exhibitions, workshops and artisan initiatives. Established under the Crafts Council of India, the organisation regularly provides a platform for textile revivalists, craftspeople and researchers to showcase traditional knowledge and handmade practices.
Event highlights
Visitors can expect:
- Recreated historical Deccan sarees
- Newly documented regional weave traditions
- Maratha-style paintings inspired by textile history
- Displays exploring jewellery and architecture
- Interaction with textile heritage through art and research
The exhibition will be inaugurated by author and textile expert Anju Poddar, whose work has contributed to documenting India’s textile and artistic traditions.
Visitor information
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Dakkhan Ko Chira |
| Artist | Vinay Narkar |
| Venue | Crafts Council of Telangana (CCT Spaces), Hyderabad. Google Map |
| Opening Date | 14 August 2026 |
| Exhibition Dates | 14–15 August 2026 |
| Timings | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Organiser | Crafts Council of Telangana |
| Entry | Free |
Takeaway
Dakkhan Ko Chira presents an opportunity to engage with the textile history of the Deccan through research, craftsmanship and visual art. By bringing together recreated sarees, historical paintings and cultural references, the exhibition highlights the importance of documenting and preserving regional textile traditions for future generations while encouraging wider public appreciation of India’s diverse craft heritage.
