The Bhopal shopaholics enjoyed shopping for the exquisite traditional purses in an exhibition, ‘Batua Exhibition,’ that concluded here on Tuesday.
The exhibition, put up at Mrignayanee Emporium GTB Complex, was organised by the Madhya Pradesh Handloom and Handicraft Development body. The show evoked a good response.
While talking to The Pioneer, Manager of Mrignayanee Emporium, GTB Complex, Ml Sharma, said, “This was the first time we have exclusively put up an exhibition on purses. These batuas were designed exclusively in bhopali karigari, the tehzeeb, the all-time fashion trend of the city.”
Elaborating, he said, “These purses have remained a style statement since ages for the Begums of Bhopal as they used to carry these batuas (round-shaped purse) along with them, in colours matching with their attire. So we have endeavoured to bring back that trend to the city and spread it amongst the youngsters.”
Sharma further said, “These purses even now can be carried on any attire yet they look stunning and trendy.”
More than a thousand varieties were available at the emporium in an array of vibrant colours like golden, red, blue and many more. Moreover, some of the batuas adorned with the zari work, kundan work, mirror work, pearl work and colourful threads as well grabbed more attention of the buyers.
The cost of these purses ranged from Rs360 to Rs1870.
Interestingly, these batuas were exclusively designed by the students and designers of the National Institute of Designing (NID) and the National Institute of Fashion Training (NIFT). The designers gave a new look to the purses keeping in mind the unique factor of Bhopali purses.
One of the unique purses is ‘Nariyal Srifal Purse,’ a coconut-shaped batua which is usually used for giving shagun, was sold out hand-to-hand.
The purse majorly attracted the college-going students as with a traditional look they appeared trendy. The traditional yet trendy bags captivated much attention of the buyers for a gift purpose. They looked so elegant that they could be gifted on special occasions.