Tillotama
A truncated barfi-chatai ; the two sides of a different Sita-har, with a central line of topas bordered by kamal chains ; a double-decker pendant that is reminiscent of our Mujra necklace, sawn off...
A truncated barfi-chatai ; the two sides of a different Sita-har, with a central line of topas bordered by kamal chains ; a double-decker pendant that is reminiscent of our Mujra necklace, sawn off : that's this ornament. A handmade 22K rich yellow gold long necklace put together using elements from some of our key designs but unique in its detailing. For instance, the four chhela-wire bridges on the side chains add a new dimension and break the tedium of continuous motifs ; the chatai is wider, adding heft and glitter to the centrepiece ; the centrepiece itself, a two-tier composition, has rows of katai pieces of various kinds carefully arranged around a central sunrise chakra.
To say the least, the effect of the sum is much greater than its parts and the whole jewel, an assemblage of the best attributes of a wide range of ornaments, shines with a power, intensity and beauty all its own, much like our beloved country where diverse cultures and religions and communities come together in a supremely secular manner to give us the greatest democracy of all.
Despite the allegory, we're not arrogant enough to name the necklace Mother India or Bharat Mata or some such but would instead see the symbolic beauty of our great motherland reflected in the ornament's variegated nature and hope that it embodies at least a bit of its unique character.
And so, Tilottama : that paragon of beauty who could even unfocus the Gods with her rare, radiant pulchritude and who for us is a glowing emblem of woman power.
READ MORE
READ LESS