When it comes to carpets and rugs, not many companies worldwide can match the legacy of the Mirzapur-based Obeetee, which turned 100 last year. It was founded by three Britishers, F.H. Oakley, F.H.Bowden, and J.A.L Taylor, on the then still relevant Grand Trunk Road in today’s Uttar Pradesh, and patronised by the rich and mighty over the years; it is among the oldest and largest hand-woven rug companies globally.
With over 25000 artisans working under its banner, Obeetee’s designs and textures are rooted in the Indian heritage. The company has joined hands with Delhi-designer duo Shantanu & Nikhil to unveil the fourth ‘Proud to be Indian’ (PTBI) limited-edition artistic rug series that illustrates the country’s history and its incredible craft journey through hand-woven masterpieces.
Talking about the collaboration and the collection, Angelique Dhama, CEO Obeetee, says, “With 100 years legacy as a brand that has always taken initiatives to sustain Indian craft and designs, the collection is a tribute to our country, showcasing the pre-Independence era, pride, valour, honour, and respect to our armed forces and the proud story of India. We are excited to partner with Shantanu & Nikhil, who have created some never seen before masterpieces. The collection is inspired from Indian heritage, yet the colours and design patterns are refreshing and new in look and feel”.
The fourth edition collection is based around three themes— Independence, Regimental Regalia, and The India-Proud Story. It revisits the couturiers’ iconic collections over the years. It tells the story of the homecoming of an Indian prince after spending years travelling across the country and the eventual reconciliation with his roots.
According to Shantanu & Nikhil, “Our partnership with Obeetee for the ‘Proud to be Indian’ collection stems from our core philosophy – and that is of encapsulating the vibrancy of vintage India and blending it with the glee and excitement of a modern celebratory India. The inspiration behind these exquisite carpets represents an amalgamation of Indian decadence and modern grandeur. It further highlights the strings of memories it holds, a feeling of nostalgia, pride, and valour; woven through each thread, and woven by the hands of artists.”
Besides celebrating the country’s heritage, The ‘Independence’ collection illustrates the India of today with signature textures, bold victory flag patterns, and a colour palette of red and navy. ‘Regimental Regalia’ derives inspiration from three strong virtues of the Indian Armed forces – discipline, pride, and togetherness, and salutes everything Nehruvian. It features brick textures, maps, battleground stains signifying struggle, and an insignia of victory that comes alive onto the tactile surface.
The India-Proud Story is about the future and juxtaposes the traditional with the modern. This collection of hand-crafted carpets pays tribute to the age-old techniques that Obeetee has perfected through a century of unparalleled workmanship.
This limited-edition collection is available at the OBEETEE store at 145, Sultanpur, Mehrauli Gurgaon Road, South West Delhi, the Shantanu & Nikhil store and www.obeetee.com
