Experience Royal Heritage at New Delhi’s Royal Fables Pop-Up

The 15th edition of Royal Fables is set to take place in New Delhi, showcasing the grandeur of India’s princely past in a modern context. This one-day pop-up event, scheduled for August 22, 2023, will be hosted at the Oval Room, Mansion, Hyatt Regency from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Presented in partnership with SONACHAANDI by the house of Shilpi Gupta and Atul Jewellers, the event aims to celebrate India’s royal heritage through a rich blend of crafts, cuisine, couture, and collectibles.

Among the key highlights is the Karkhana Chronicles, a campaign spotlighting collaborations between royal families and artisans. This initiative focuses on preserving India’s textile heritage by supporting artisan communities, particularly those affected by the pandemic. Attendees will also enjoy the Kitchen of the Kings, which features an immersive presentation of lost recipes from royal kitchens. Additionally, Regal Retail Therapy offers a curated selection of luxury handcrafted goods for discerning buyers.

Curator Anshu Khanna emphasizes that this year’s event highlights the contributions of young royals, with ten participants showcasing their work. “The platform allows them to showcase their work and is intended to keep the craft tradition alive,” Khanna stated.

One notable participant is Kunwar Yaduveer Singh Bera, who is reviving the traditional Bera jackets. Each piece is handcrafted using techniques passed down through generations, inspired by the landscapes of Jawai in Rajasthan. The collection traces its roots to the early 20th century, when Yaduveer’s great-grandfather, Captain Prithi Singh Bera, designed the first quilted jackets for royal polo fields and hunting expeditions. These garments were not only functional but also served as symbolic representations of Indian art.

Maharani Shailja Katoch of Kangra, another participant, draws on her family’s culinary heritage. “I inherited the love for food from my grandfather and great-grandfather, who collected heirloom recipes from over 500 royal Indian families,” she explained. Shailja will present a selection of classic dishes from dham cuisine, a traditional vegetarian feast of the Kangra region. Guests can expect to savor dishes such as ma ki dal (black lentils), palda (curd-based curry), and meethe chawal (sweet rice).

Co-curator Charu Singh highlights the focus on designers who blend Indian aesthetics with modern sensibilities, preserving and evolving heritage while remaining active in the contemporary art scene.

Another unique offering comes from Mrinalini Kumari Lunavada, who recently launched her home furnishing brand, Loonawara. Inspired by her family’s palace in Lunavada, Gujarat, she aims to reflect its intricate beauty through her designs. “The palace, adorned with frescoes and detailed carvings, inspires my collections,” Lunavada said. Her collection includes cushion covers, table mats, and lampshades, with prices starting at ₹5,000.

The Royal Fables pop-up promises to be a vibrant celebration of India’s royal heritage, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to engage with the rich tapestry of India’s history while supporting artisan communities and promoting cultural preservation.