I’m thrilled to FINALLY tell you all about my trip to India this past April, especially since the launch of our Globe and Mail article sponsored by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines! This journey was quite significant, as it marked our return to India 22 years after immigrating to Canada in 2002 when I was four years old (to save you the math, I’m 26 now). Accompanied by my mom and my brother, this trip was filled with discovery, nostalgia, and unending inspiration.
Landing in Delhi: A Warm Welcome
Our journey began in Delhi, where I was born, greeted by the warm embrace of my grandparents who live in California and spend a few months in India every year. We were lucky to time our trip with their annual stay, and it was such a joy to see them young as ever, truly living (in every sense of the word) in India. We spent time visiting relatives and my mom’s old friends; watching her rekindle connections that had been cherished but distant was something special. One of the highlights was visiting the school where my mom used to teach and where my brother studied for a few years. Walking through the halls, hearing stories of the past, and seeing familiar faces brought an overwhelming sense of belonging for the two of them.
A special moment for my brother was our visit to the National Rail Museum. As a child, he was fascinated by the trains, and revisiting the museum allowed him to relive that childhood nostalgia. It was a joy to see his eyes light up as he explored the exhibits, him and my mom sharing stories of his younger days.
Image of National Rail Museum in Delhi
I was excited to check out local artisan markets and brands that I had been following for years. We were able to make it to Dilli Haat, which is an incredible artisan market sponsored by the Indian government. I was overjoyed to go to the NorBlack NorWhite flagship store in Dhan Mill, and I also made it to Payal Singhal, Anita Dongre, Sabyasaachi, and Masaba among many other stores I wanted to see! I discovered many brands which I keep up with now too!
Image of NorBlack NorWhite Store in Dhan Mill, Delhi
Jaipur: A Tapestry of Tradition
Next, we headed to Jaipur, a city that had long been on my bucket list. It was actually one of the destinations where my parents honeymooned, so I grew up seeing pictures of their time there with all the stunning architecture. Jaipur is the heart of many of India’s traditional fabric design techniques, and experiencing these firsthand was a dream come true. We visited artisans who practiced block-printing, bandhani (tie-dye), and other traditional techniques that originated in Jaipur. Watching these craftspeople at work was both inspiring and humbling, and it deepened my appreciation for the intricate artistry behind each piece. I’ll admit, we did a fair bit of shopping in Jaipur and I have no regrets! You may see a haul of our purchases soon…
Bandhani and Block printed fabrics purchased in Jaipur
Jaipur’s architectural wonders left us in awe. The Hawa Mahal, with its intricate latticework, the majestic Amber Fort, the astronomical genius of Jantra Mantra, and the regal City Palace were all breathtaking. The vibrant colors, detailed carvings, and historical significance of these sites provided endless inspiration for Studio Dialectica’s future collections. You may know that a small section of the Hawa Mahal appears in one of our signature block prints, so I was pretty excited to see this iconic building in person. I was taken by surprise when I realized that it's in the middle of one of Jaipur's busiest streets, sandwiched between the Johri and Bapu Bazaars!
The Hawa Mahal in Jaipur
The Amber Fort in Jaipur
Goa: A Coastal Paradise
Our final destination was Goa, which we were inspired to visit by the iconic Bollywood film “Dil Chahta Hai.” My mom was adamant that we visited since she had never been as south as Goa, so it was a new adventure for us all! The contrast from North India’s bustling cities to Goa’s serene beaches was a welcome change of pace. We indulged in the local cuisine, where coconut lovers rejoice, and visited the Sahakari Spice Farm, learning about the spices that define Goan cooking. It was especially interesting to watch the process of making Feni, a liquor that Goa is famous for.
Lunch at the Sahakari Spice Farm, and beach at Zuri White Sands in Goa
The architecture in Goa, with its European influence and vibrant colors, was a feast for the eyes. Each building told a story of its own, blending Indian and Portuguese styles into a unique coastal charm.
Reflections and Takeaways
This trip was more than a vacation; it was a journey of rediscovery and connection. I felt a deep sense of homecoming, even though I didn’t grow up in India. My comfort with Hindi improved, which had been a challenge for me growing up, and I was captivated by the unique shopping experiences and the bustling markets. This visit has only fueled my desire to explore India’s garment industry further and to incorporate more traditional techniques into our designs at Studio Dialectica.
I can't wait to go back. The country’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and unparalleled craftsmanship are endless sources of inspiration. Until then, I look forward to sharing more of this journey with you through our upcoming pieces.
Stay tuned to see what this trip inspires!
Until next time,
Arushi
Founder, Studio Dialectica
The three of us at the Amber Fort!
CREDITS:
All photos supplied by Arushi Chopra
All illustrations by Jeannie Phan