Sara Ali Khan is undoubtedly embracing her heritage connoisseur era, and what better way to showcase this than with an ensemble that embodies classic craftsmanship and timeless textiles? For the Ganpati celebrations at the Ambani residence, the actress opted for a bespoke Mayyur Girotra Couture lehenga that took approximately a week to complete, from design conceptualization to intricate handwork and final construction.
This vibrant and coveted custom lehenga is part of a series of exclusive heirloom creations that Mayyur Girotra crafts on request for clients who prioritize conscious choices over fast fashion. The inspiration behind these creations, as the designer shares, stems from his passion for preserving antique textiles and his unwavering commitment to sustainability.
“The lehenga is made using five antique brocade saris. These drapes, collected over time by me and my mother, feature incredible craftsmanship and timeless beauty. The idea was to repurpose these precious, pre-owned textiles, not only to make them part of a new story but also to honour the heritage they carry,” explains Girotra.
He translated this vision by creating multi-colored panels from the saris for the lehenga. Each panel uniquely showcases its character while harmonizing with the others. The blouse is also crafted from an old brocade sari, mirroring the vibrancy and opulence of the lehenga. To complete the look, a tissue silk dupatta adorned with an antique brocade border adds the final touch, tying the entire ensemble together.
The eye-catching brocade lehenga didn’t require any surface ornamentation, but the dupatta was elevated with pure zardozi and burnt dabka work. While dabka finds its origins in the Middle East, zardozi work dates back to the Mughal era. “Dabka,” meaning “stamping” in Arabic, is an ancient needlework technique that utilizes colorful threads to create intricate geometric designs. Zardozi, on the other hand, involves the use of gold and silver threads.
“In the case of Sara’s dupatta, we stayed true to its antique roots by using vintage zardozi techniques. What makes this work special is the intricacy along with the time and labor involved in its craftsmanship. We aimed to create a connection between the past and the present, evoking a sense of regal grandeur that still feels contemporary,” adds Girotra.
Curated by celebrity stylist Ami Patel, Khan’s look was accessorized with a stunning pearl and uncut diamond choker and complementing jhumkas from Aren Jewellers Jaipurwale. A half-up, half-down updo adorned with fresh purple flowers, along with kohl-rimmed eyes and a nude gloss, completed her beauty look. This ensemble is a testament to the power of traditional craftsmanship and sustainability, beautifully woven into a modern, stylish look that resonates with a sense of heritage and timeless elegance.
