For Diwali, Nita Ambani turned to the rich textile heritage of Banaras, choosing a saree that brought together traditional brocade craftsmanship, sacred symbolism and festive elegance. At the Reliance Deepawali Utsav, the Reliance Foundation founder wore a striking vermilion-red Ramavali saree from Swadesh, a creation that made devotion the central motif of her festive wardrobe.Handwoven in pure silk over nearly five months, the saree was crafted by master artisan and textile revivalist Ajay Bhoj. Its significance, however, went beyond the time and skill invested in its making. The fabric itself carried a devotional narrative, with the sacred name Shri Ram woven repeatedly across its panels. The result was a traditional Banarasi drape that looked festive at first glance but revealed intricate details the closer one looked.
A Banarasi Saree That Wove Devotion Into Every Detail
The rich vermilion-red base gave the saree its unmistakable festive appeal, while intricate gold-toned brocade patterns lent it depth and texture. The repeated inscriptions of Shri Ram ran across the body, creating a distinctive woven pattern rather than relying on conventional floral or geometric motifs alone.The pallu featured Lord Vishnu’s sacred footprints alongside lotus elements, bringing another layer of religious symbolism to the design. The elaborate border, with its traditional floral and ornamental detailing, framed the drape beautifully. Gold motifs and finely woven patterns extended across the fabric, allowing the silk to catch the light with every fold.
The saree was created using the Kadwa technique, an intricate Banarasi weaving method in which each motif is woven individually rather than being produced as a continuous brocade pattern. This painstaking process gives the motifs definition and makes the finished textile a testament to the expertise of Banaras’s master weavers.
The name Ramavali brings together Ram and namavali, meaning a garland of divine names. In this case, the concept was translated into a textile, with the repeated inscription becoming an integral part of the saree’s design.
Traditional Jewellery Completed The Festive Look
Nita Ambani paired the statement saree with a matching vermilion-red blouse featuring short sleeves and delicate gold detailing along the neckline and cuffs. The blouse kept the overall silhouette classic, allowing the elaborate silk drape to remain the focal point.
