
I was attending a wedding in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, when a friend who had also come for the wedding invited me to a film festival in Rewa. With three more days to spare in Madhya Pradesh after the wedding, I gladly agreed to join him for the Vindhya International Film Festival. Little did I know, I was about to witness something truly mesmerizing.

One of the highlights of the festival for me was a documentary on Chanderi Handloom. Words cannot fully describe the experience. The film, The Woven Motifs of Chanderi, directed by Gouri Srinivas—a filmmaker from my hometown, Bangalore—was a profound showcase of the challenges and artistry behind Chanderi sarees. The intricacy of the weaving process and the perseverance of the artisans were depicted so vividly that it felt as though I was taking a tour alongside them.


The cinematography by Mohan L was breathtaking, bringing the entire weaving process to life on screen. The documentary explored traditional methods used in creating Chanderi sarees, a craft that has withstood the test of time, while also shedding light on how handloom practices have evolved to meet modern demands.

As someone who never expected to be so captivated by saree weaving, I was surprised by how much the film resonated with me. Every aspect, from the visuals to the storytelling, carried a nostalgic aura, making it a truly immersive experience. I enjoyed every bit of the documentary and left the festival with a newfound appreciation for this exquisite craft.
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