It was an evening dipped in heritage, elegance, and plenty of star power as Nita Ambani, Founder–Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, hosted a grand celebration at the Swadesh flagship store at Eros. The event transformed into a glowing tribute to India’s rich lineage of craftsmanship, honouring the nation’s finest artists and artisans—those who carry forward centuries-old traditions with skill, devotion, and breathtaking finesse.
Addressing the gathering, Nita Ambani called the National Award-winning artisans the “pride of India and the stars of tonight,” setting the tone for an evening that celebrated both legacy and artistry. Among the honorees were Padma Shri recipient Biren Basak, famed for his Tangail and Jamdani weaves; Tanjore painting maestro V. Panneerselvam; seventh-generation miniature artist Shammi Bannu Sharma; Paithani revivalist and textile virtuoso GhanShyam Sarode; and Odisha Ikat genius Gunjan Jain, the 2024 National Award winner. Each artisan received heartfelt recognition for preserving and elevating India’s diverse artistic traditions.
The night wasn’t short on glamour either. Leading cultural voices and style icons—including Prasoon Joshi, Anupama Chopra, and Manish Malhotra—joined Nita Ambani to celebrate India’s artistic soul. Bollywood celebrities and industry veterans arrived in dazzling ensembles, infusing the evening with cinematic shine while spotlighting the individuals whose craft often forms the backbone of India’s cultural identity.
With its vibrant convergence of art, cinema, fashion, and heritage, the Swadesh celebration reaffirmed a powerful message: India’s artisans are not just creators—they are custodians of a cultural legacy that continues to inspire the world.