Today on the blog, we feature jewellery designer Rhea Hirani Shah and founder of Aaharya, a home grown jewelry label specializing in kemp jewellery (temple jewellery), based in Mumbai. Her story…
Tell us a bit about yourself.
An ardent disciple of Bharat Natyam, Rhea Hirani Shah is the sculptor of Aaharya. Inspired by her mentors, and honed by her knowledge in Fashion Business Management from ISDI, Parsons, she strives to restore this Indian Cultural Heritage – Temple Jewellery.
What sparked your passion for jewelry?
“I felt Temple Jewellery was just categorised as dance jewellery. And its work was not given as much importance as many other art forms. Wanted the world to take notice and also understand how artistically these pieces of our cultural heritage are fortunately still made as the number of artisans is diminishing at an alarming rate. Being a Bharat Natyam dancer these pieces have become a part of my DNA and come naturally to me now.”
When did you begin Aaharya and how has it evolved ?
The ethos of Aaharya lies in being rooted to our culture and traditions, recognising craftsmen and taking forward the most alluring but yet the most elusive art form. With the option of curating customised sets, we believe in perfecting the final nuances whilst turning your vision into reality.
We started now almost 3 years back and have experienced our vision being turned into reality one step at a time.
Why is making so important to you?
The ability to create is something that is fundamentally satisfying to any individual . It exists in everyone. The opportunity to enhance these capabilities and portray my work to the world is what gives me immense immense joy.
What do you wish more shoppers knew about your jewelry?
The art of making Temple Jewellery has been passed on from father to son since generations. Although looking at the low rate of return the younger generation refuses to take this up as a profession leaving this art form at the brink of extinction. We as an organisation have started to re-align the wheel for its smooth functioning and are very proud to be the torch bearers for the preservation and wide acceptance of this art form.
What is currently working on?
On our upcoming collection to welcome the tulip season.
What is your personal favorite pick from your Aaharya right now? And why?
It has to be the Abharika necklace. It is so opulent yet so fresh. It’s perpetually sold out but if by any chance I see one lying around it just uplifts my mood.
What are your displaying at the By Hand, From The Heart.
This is the first time we’ll be visiting Chennai as well so we are very excited and are being extremely picky to bring just the right match for By Hand , From the Heart. Also , please note we’ll be showcasing all these products for which the images have been featured.
Meet the Maker @
25th edition: By Hand From The Heart Makers Market
8 – 9 – February 2019 | Friday – Saturday | 10 a.m – 9 p.m
Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park, (old Adyar Gate Hotel)
132, T.T.K Road, Alwarpet, Chennai – 600018, India.
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