Highlights
- Nita Ambani attends the Swadesh flagship store launch in Mumbai in a peacock blue Banarasi saree
- The saree, designed by Manish Malhotra, features meena motifs and the kadhua weaving technique
- Her look includes a custom polki blouse, vintage jewellery accents and antique 100-year-old earrings
- Manish Malhotra praises her attention to detail and long-standing collaboration
A standout appearance at the Swadesh flagship opening
Nita Ambani makes a striking appearance at the opening of the Swadesh flagship store in Mumbai on December 5. The event highlights Reliance Retail’s initiative to preserve Indian arts and crafts, and her ensemble mirrors the theme with its emphasis on heritage textiles and traditional craftsmanship.
Wearing a deep peacock blue Banarasi saree by designer Manish Malhotra, she brings together classic Indian elegance and intricate workmanship. The saree’s rich color and detailed weaving create a dramatic yet refined look.
The craftsmanship behind the saree
A Banarasi weave rooted in tradition
Manish Malhotra shares that the saree features meena motifs and uses the kadhua weaving technique, a highly regarded and labor-intensive method from Banaras known for producing finely detailed silk.
At the event, Nita pairs the Banarasi drape with a custom polki blouse that enhances the traditional aesthetic. The blouse includes thoughtful details, such as buttons featuring miniature paintings of Hindu deities and the use of vintage jewellery elements on the back.
Jewellery that steals the spotlight
Antique earrings and ornate accessories
Her jewellery forms the centerpiece of the look. Nita wears a pair of large antique kundan and polki earrings, described as 100 years old and part of her personal collection. The earrings add a bold, opulent finish to the ensemble. She completes the look with an ornate hath phool.
Her hair is styled in an elegant bun adorned with fresh white flowers, while a red bindi complements the vibrant tones of the saree.
Manish Malhotra’s tribute to their collaboration
Designer reflects on Nita’s eye for detail
Manish Malhotra shares a photo of Nita on Instagram, noting the care she puts into each appearance. He highlights their ongoing collaboration and praises her attention to detail. He adds that her look at the Swadesh event includes the peacock blue Banarasi saree, the meena motifs and kadhua technique, the custom polki blouse, hand-painted deity buttons and vintage spinel jewellery, along with the century-old kundan polki earrings from her personal collection.
