I took my mother, who was visiting from Japan, to Dastkari Haat, a handicraft fair held at PL Deshpande Garden in Kalagram, Pune. The fair continues until the 9th of November.

Dastkari Haat Samiti Brings Its Iconic Craft Bazaar to Pune's New Cult

I learned about this fair through an invitation from Aarti Kripps Kapoor, the leader of Mumbai's Saree Sakhiyaan.

It was Saturday afternoon, so the fair was bustling with shoppers. For an unusual November, the weather was still ominous, but that brought a cooler breeze, making it comfortable to browse.
 

That day, however, my primary purpose was to meet Aarti.

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Because I had been following Aarti on social media and through her posts in the "Saree Sakhiyaan" WhatsApp group, it was easy for me to spot her in the crowded venue, even though it was our first meeting.

Aarti's outfit for the day was a lightweight cotton sari called "Kota Doria" from Rajasthan. The delicately sheer fabric was striking, with an exquisite blue dye that seemed to capture the colors of the sky just after sunset. The pallu was tied around her neck like a scarf, and the combination of a monochrome tank top and a short bolero-style blouse gave her look a sophisticated flair. The entire style was effortlessly elegant—just like her.

Along with Aarti, two fellow Saree Sakhiyaan members, M and R, were also there. M looked sleek and modern in a simple cotton sari, worn without pleats, while R's white (safed) floral-patterned synthetic sari matched her calm, graceful personality perfectly.

I wore my favorite Suta cotton checked sari with an oversized shirt, but since it had been a while since I last wore a sari, I felt a bit awkward. Still, the three of them didn't mention any details or corrections; instead, they generously showered me with compliments and encouraged me, saying, "Practice every day—that's the key!"

Although we spent less than an hour together, our conversation was devoted entirely to our shared passion for saris and traditional fabrics—no personal questions, no small talk. While sipping chai, I translated for my mother as our chat turned to how saris relate to kimono culture, and we even filmed a short Reel for Instagram. I laughed freely and felt entirely at ease, as if I were a student again. Meeting such inspiring sari friends that day—people who felt like a fountain of creativity—was truly a treasure I will always cherish.

As we were having such a joyful time, a young woman with her child approached us.
"I love saris and would love to wear one daily, but I've only ever had the chance to do so on special occasions. Seeing you all wear them with such confidence has inspired me—I'd like to give it a try myself too."

It was my first time witnessing strangers influence each other through something so beautiful. Needless to say, I was deeply moved, and my heart was whole.
 

While I wasn't able to explore much of the actual handicrafts at the venue, even a quick look showed a fascinating variety: gamcha apparel, indigo-dyed textiles, South Indian mulberry silk with watercolor-style dyeing, leatherwork, silverware, and pottery—all packed into the lively stalls. The fair continues for a few more days, so if you're interested, I highly recommend stopping by.

By the way, in "Saree Sakhiyaan," which I joined in March this year, Aarti and other sari-loving friends regularly exchange information and tips about saris. Recently, members discussed ideal cases for sari storage, and this IKEA product was highly recommended.
 

If you're interested in such activities, be sure to follow Aarti on Instagram. To join the "Saree Sakhiyaan" group, you'll need a WhatsApp account.

Aarti has also published a book filled with her deep love for saris.

Buy Saree Stories from the 21st Century Book Online at Low Prices in India _ Saree Stories from the 21st Century Reviews & Ratings - Amazon. in