With a wide range of ethnic fabrics as well as gift articles at reasonable prices, there is a find for everyone at Banjaras Shop in Aundh. The shop is instantly inviting. Elegantly decorated with antique furniture, blocks used for block print designs hang from the ceiling and flowing dupattas line the walls. Lots of light highlight the displays on the wall and shoppers are able to visualize their creations as well. The shop has recently moved to a new and larger location in order for better display of their broad range of materials. “For the past 17 years I have chosen fabrics from 10 different states” says owner, Neeta Deshpande. The fabric is then taken to another state which specializes in some type of fabric art form such as block printing(Gurjat) or hand embroidery(West Bengal). The materials are great for clothing such as salwar suits, kurtas, skirts, and saris, as make for eclectic curtains as well. Dupattas are a specialty of Banjaras and the shop boasts over 80 types of special dupattas. The ethnic jewelry on display is the Maya-bazaar brand procured from Mumbai. Reasonably priced between Rs. 200 – 400 for a set, it makes the perfect complement to any kurti or salwar suit. Other gift articles made mostly with block prints include purses, pouches, wallets and folders. The store is frequented by ladies of all ages but is a favourite among professionals. Price Range: Mangalgiris and block prints range from Rs. 90-100 per metre. Mulmuls are Rs. 160-180 per metre and silks range at Rs. Rs. 250 to Rs. 450. Our Pick : The Maheshwari dupattas are gorgeous. Priced at Rs. 950 these cotton with a zari border pieces are stunning and can make a professional as well as dressy statement. An orange one was particularly nice. Mixed with a cream khadi material as the suit(Rs. 150 per metre), an entire dressy suit amounted to Rs. Rs. 450(material) +Rs.950(dupatta) = Rs.1400 + stitching. The shop has in house tailors whose charges begin at Rs. 250 for salwar suits.
Banjaras 1, Mangal Gaurav, Ground Floor Vee Nimbalkar Lane(Lane adj to Skoda Showroom Off Baner Road Pune 411007 Tel: 25661844 Timings: 10am-8pm, Monday –Saturday. Sunday closed.
Published in Midday Newspaper
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