Latest news with #Gandabherunda
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Gandabherundas: The mythological motif on Deepika Padukone's wedding saree is soaring high in the fashion world
(Image Credits: Pinterest) India's architectural history isn't just about grand tombs and temples, it's also rich in ornate decorative motifs. These intricate designs include lotus medallions, amalakas, kalgis, temple shrines, and more. But have you ever noticed a mythical, two-headed bird called the Gandabherunda, often seen on Kanjeevaram drapes? One such motif appeared on Bollywood star Deepika Padukone's wedding saree, designed by the Bengaluru-based atelier Angadi Galleria. While this appearance may have pushed the motif back into the spotlight, the Gandabherunda has a long and fascinating history. Who are the Gandabherundas ? The Gandabherunda is a mythical two-headed warrior bird with Buddhist origins. Colonial archaeologist John Marshall discovered a depiction of this bird at the base of a stupa in Taxila. A similar motif featuring Hamsa (swan) heads was found on a stupa railing in Bodh Gaya. Marshall traced its roots to Eastern India, and over time, this mystical carving became more than just a cultural symbol, it also inspired generations of artists and designers. (Image Credits: Pinterest) What do the two heads of the Gandabherunda represent? The two heads symbolise the balance between creation and destruction. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Vid vilken ålder kan man gå i pension med 3 mnkr? Fisher Invest. Norden Ta reda på mer Undo One head was Garuda, the other Upagaruda. According to legend, when one slept, the other remained awake. But one day, while Upagaruda was asleep, Garuda found and ate a beautiful flower without informing his brother. Upon waking and learning what had happened, Upagaruda, in a fit of rage, consumed a poisonous flower—causing both of them to perish. Cannes 2022: Deepika Padukone gets trolled for her retro look at red carpet This tale serves as a metaphor for unity, warning against selfishness and emphasizing the importance of balance and trust. In the Mahabharata, the Gandabherunda appears amid divine battles, while Jain scriptures describe it as a watchful creature, its wings symbolizing might and vigilance. Entry into the fashion world The motif also appears on the Virabhadra temple and was later replicated in textiles woven by Mysore state artisans in the 15th century for the royal family. Textile expert Brigette Khan Majlis notes that similar motifs were found in Indonesia, where at least four drapes in a noble family's heirloom featured the Gandabherunda, pointing to historical links with South India. (Image Credits: Pinterest) Today, Gandabherunda motifs are imbued with spiritual symbolism and believed to ward off the evil eye, making them a popular choice for wedding sarees and festive attire. From Nita Ambani to Trisha Krishnan, many Indian icons have worn sarees bearing this powerful bird. With Deepika Padukone's wedding ensemble reviving interest, it looks like the Gandabherunda is making a fashionable comeback - ready to take flight once again in India's sartorial sky.
News18
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Nita Ambani Makes A Royal Statement In A Sindoori Red Banarasi Silk Saree
Last Updated: Nita Ambani stunned in a vibrant red Banarasi silk saree as she appeared in a recent video where she talked about the upcoming NMACC India Weekend in New York. Ahead of the much-anticipated NMACC India Weekend, the official page of Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) India Weekend shared a video of Nita Ambani welcoming people to witness this grand spectacle at the Lincoln Centre in New York. While the video has got everyone talking about the event, fashion enthusiasts could not get over Nita's sindoori red Banarasi silk saree. The Reliance Foundation's chairperson captivated the audience with her stunning ensemble that celebrated Indian craftsmanship on a global platform. In the video, Nita Ambani donned a red Banarasi silk saree. The saree featured intricate gold brocade embroidery along with broad double gold borders that added richness to the ensemble. The saree featured intricate Gandabherunda motifs that were rendered in real gold and silver zari. Draped in a classic style, the six yards were pleated neatly at the front, while the pallu was gracefully draped over her shoulder and pinned elegantly at the arm. Nita paired the saree with a coordinating red silk blouse adorned with vertical gold thread embroidery. The blouse came with half sleeves. It was adorned with brocade detailing at the cuffs, a wide U-shaped neckline, and a cropped hem that added a modern touch to the traditional silhouette. She completed her look with striking gold jewellery – a statement necklace with a large pendant, matching earrings, traditional rings, and stacked kadhas. Her hair was styled in a sleek, centre-parted bun, accentuated by a red bindi. For the glam, she opted for bold brows, kohl-rimmed eyes, sharp black eyeliner, voluminous lashes, a hint of blush, luminous highlighter, and glossy coral-pink lips. The NMACC India Weekend is all set to take over New York from September 12-14. Nita said, 'Bringing NMACC to New York is not just about a weekend of performances; it's about spreading India's cultural voice to a global audience and truly taking the very best of India to the world." She was spotted wearing this saree in May when she visited New York with designer Manish Malhotra for a recce. First Published: June 10, 2025, 13:46 IST
News18
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Nita Ambani Exudes Timeless Elegance In A Sindoori Red Banarasi Silk Saree
Last Updated: For her latest look, Nita Ambani opted for a handwoven Jamdhani Banarasi silk saree that was adorned with real gold and silver zari work. Nita Ambani does not miss an opportunity to dazzle in statement sarees that celebrate Indian craftsmanship. For her recent look, the philanthropist and businesswoman stunned in a red silk saree by Swadesh. She paired the Banarasi saree with some exquisite jewels and truly looked like a vision. For her recent look, Nita Ambani made a striking statement in a sindoori red silk saree crafted by Swadesh. The saree, woven from rich jamdhani Banarasi silk, featured intricate Gandabherunda motifs that were rendered in real gold and silver zari. These motifs gave the overall saree a regal elegance and showcased the artistry of traditional Indian weaving. Draped with classic grace, the saree's pallu flowed effortlessly over her shoulder. She paired the saree with a matching blouse to complete her look. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ambani Family (@ambani_update) Her look was further elevated by her exquisite jewellery. She went with oversized stud earrings, a long temple-style necklace, stacked bangles, and a statement ring. She carried a brown hued Hermes Birkin. Manish Malhotra mentioned, 'Mrs Nita Ambani in a handwoven jamdhani banarasi saree with Gandabherunda motifs in real gold and silver zari by @swadesh_online paired with a @hermes Birkin custom made for Mrs Nita Ambani made ten years back embroidered with indian motifs especially for her…. during our visit to #newyork for our recce for the @ Weekend." For the glam, Nita went with a flawless matte base. She defined her eyes with a dramatic winged eyeliner, kohl, and mascara. She added a hint of blush for that rosy flush and added a touch of highlighter for that luxurious sheen. She finished her look with a sleek middle-parted bun and a glossy red shade on her lips.
Hindustan Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Nita Ambani redefines ‘draped to perfection' in elegant sindoori red saree and heirloom-worthy gold jewellery. See pics
Nita Ambani is not only a philanthropist and businesswoman but also a true fashion maven at heart. Known for her love of exquisite six yards, she never misses a chance to dazzle in a statement saree. She recently announced that the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) will host the grand 'India Weekend' in New York City. To mark the announcement, she posed at the cultural centre in her stunning red drape. Let's decode her look and take some fashion notes. (Also read: Nita Ambani decked her Banarasi saree with massive diamond bracelet, hair brooches that will blind you! Pics ) Nita wore a sindoori red silk saree from Bollywood's favourite designer Manish Malhotra. It features handwoven jamdhani banarasi fabric adorned with Gandabherunda motifs in real gold and silver zari. The exquisite detailing across the saree lent it a regal touch, highlighting the rich craftsmanship of Indian weavers. She draped it gracefully, allowing the pallu to fall elegantly over her shoulder, and paired the ensemble with a matching blouse for a timeless look. A post shared by Ambani Family (@ambani_update) Talking about Nita Ambani's look without mentioning her opulent jewellery is impossible. She accessorised her outfit with dazzling gold pieces, including oversized stud earrings, a long temple necklace, bangles on her wrist, and a ring adorning her finger, perfectly elevating her regal ensemble. Her makeup was on point, featuring dramatic winged eyeliner, kohled eyes, mascara-coated lashes, darkened brows, blushed cheeks, luminous highlighter and a shade of glossy red lipstick. With her luscious tresses styled in a middle-parted bun, she perfectly finished off her look. Nita Ambani is married to Mukesh Ambani, and they have three children: Isha Ambani, Akash Ambani, and Anant Ambani. She is an Indian businesswoman and philanthropist, serving as the chairperson and founder of the Reliance Foundation and the Dhirubhai Ambani International School. Additionally, she is an avid art collector.
Hans India
22-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Revival of Ancient Shipbuilding Craft
Karwar: The Indian Navy officially commissioned INSV Kaundinya, a traditionally crafted sail ship, into its fleet at Karwar Naval Base on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in preserving India's maritime heritage. The vessel, constructed using 5th-century CE shipbuilding techniques, reflects a blend of historical ingenuity and modern validation. The induction ceremony was presided over by Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, with Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition, and Rear Admiral K M Ramakrishnan, Flag Officer of Karnataka Naval Area, among the attendees. Shekhawat highlighted the project's importance, stating, 'A historic moment for Bharat and our civilisational pride. Presided over the induction ceremony of the Ancient Stitched Ship INSV Kaundinya at Karwar Naval Base today—an extraordinary recreation of a 5th-century vessel, inspired by Ajanta murals and handcrafted by Kerala's traditional artisans using age-old techniques.' He credited Sanjeev Sanyal, Economic Adviser to the Prime Minister, for initiating research into the project. Named after Kaundinya, a legendary Indian mariner who navigated to Southeast Asia, the ship features culturally significant elements, including sails with Gandabherunda (two headed bird) and Sun motifs, a Simha Yali sculpture on the bow, and a Harappan-style stone anchor. These details symbolise India's historical maritime trade and cultural exchanges. The vessel is set to undertake a transoceanic journey along the ancient Gujarat-Oman trade route later this year, reinforcing its role as a living testament to India's seafaring past. The project, formalised in July 2023 through an agreement between the Ministry of Culture, the Indian Navy, and M/s Hodi Innovations, was funded by the Ministry of Culture. Construction began with the keel-laying in September 2023 and culminated in the ship's launch in Goa in February 2025. A team of artisans from Kerala, led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, employed a traditional stitching technique, using coir rope, coconut fibre, and natural resin to join wooden planks. This method, preserved by a single family, was guided by designs derived from Ajanta Cave paintings, as no original blueprints reportedly exist. The Indian Navy oversaw the technical aspects, collaborating with IIT Madras's Department of Ocean Engineering for hydrodynamic testing and internal assessments to ensure the vessel's seaworthiness. The absence of modern fasteners like screws underscores the authenticity of the construction, which relied entirely on historical methods to recreate the hull and rigging.
