6th December, 2013, Mumbai: Friday afternoon witnessed the esteemed presence of Ms. Kiran Rao at an exhibition showcasing the crafts and skills of the wives of the Godrej employees in “Handmade Batik Originals.” The exhibition presented by Mrs. Smita Godrej Crishna, at Godrej Bhavan, Fort, was organized with an aim to preserve the traditional and very ancient art of wax painting or Batik.
Kiran Rao
A limited edition collection of table linen, scarves, kurtis, tees, sarees and sarongs, made by the wives of the Godrej employees, reflected the enthusiasm of these women in learning the art of Batik under the guidance of Mrs. Smita Godrej Crishna.
The true origin of Batik has never been determined, but it can safely be presumed to be at least 2000 years old. Archaeological findings prove that the people of Egypt and Persia used to wear batiked garments, and the same can be said of the people of India, China, Japan and most countries in the East.
Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Smita Godrej Crishna said, “Batik is a very ancient form of wax-painting, which not many people are familiar with. The delicacy and variety of its texture, the crackle effect of the wax, the designs and colours make it particularly beautiful. I want to preserve this very traditional art and we have tried to do it through showcasing the skills and crafts of these women at this exhibition. We are also very thankful to Ms. Kiran Rao for taking time out and coming here to encourage and promote the art of Batik.”
