For art curator Madhu Neotia, textiles like zardozi blouses and brocade skirts are the new heirlooms

Her book, ‘From an Era Bygone’, is a love letter to family legacy and heritage. Back in the day, when she was a young bride in the Neotia household, she found comfort in her husband’s grandmother, Bhagirathi Devi Neotia (whom she affectionately calls Dadima), who shared her treasured collection of textiles and artefacts, many of which have inspired her book.

“My understanding, my love of textiles, is largely bequeathed to me from our family. I have learnt so much from observing how generations of women preserve their share of heirlooms and from engaging in the discussions and conversations that centred around the arts and crafts that go behind the making of precious pieces. ‘From an Era Bygone’ captures a personal story, but it was never mine to keep—it was only forever to share.”

Neotia has built her work around the concept of conscious patronage, a term that resonates throughout her involvement with The India Story and her efforts to preserve textile heritage. “It is important for patrons and conservationists to also take an active interest in seeking conscious choices that protect, preserve, and promote the dying crafts of our country.”

The India Story has expanded beyond exhibitions to include The India Story Awards (TISA), celebrating indigenous businesses that contribute to India’s creative economy. Discussing the criteria for these recognitions, Neotia is passionate. “The Awards were our way of recognising path-breaking talents in the industry. Today, creative talent is not bound by rules.”

She explains the rigorous process behind these selections. “For us, it was important to have categories relevant for the modern audience. The research undertaken to draw the nominations was also intensive, based on studies of individual creations, achievements and conversations to prioritise ingenuity and honest creativity.”