ISDI Students Embark on a Cultural and Design Immersion in Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, a land of rich heritage and artistic excellence, became a dynamic learning ground for ISDI’s Fashion Design students as they embarked on a transformative Local Immersion experience. Over seven days, students delved into the world of traditional craftsmanship, textile artistry and architectural brilliance, gaining hands-on exposure that will shape their creative journeys.
Exploring the Heart of Indore: Textile Traditions & Markets
The immersion kicked off in Indore, a city where history and contemporary culture coexist seamlessly. Students explored Moti Tabela, a hub of exquisite Zardosi embroidery, witnessing artisans skillfully weaving metallic threads into intricate patterns—an art form that has adorned Indian textiles for centuries.
A guided walk through Bohra Bazaar and Kapda Bazaar introduced them to the vibrant marketplace culture, where textile merchants showcased a dazzling array of fabrics, from rich brocades to everyday wear. The evening unfolded at Chappan Bazaar, Indore’s famous street food hub, where students soaked in the energy of local flavors, colors and traditions.
Bagh Prints & Architectural Marvels of Mandavgarh
A journey to Bagh took students deep into the world of Bagh printing, a centuries-old hand block printing technique using natural dyes. They engaged with artisans to understand the meticulous process of carving wooden blocks, dyeing fabrics and creating striking geometric and floral motifs.
The expedition continued to Mandavgarh, a city steeped in history and architectural grandeur. From the floating Jahaz Mahal to the ornate Hindola Mahal and the romantic Baz Bahadur Palace, students marveled at the fusion of Persian, Mughal and Rajput architectural influences. Each structure narrated tales of a bygone era, offering insight into how design serves as a bridge between history and modernity.
Weaving Heritage at Maheshwar
The journey to Maheshwar, a town synonymous with textile artistry, offered students a close look at the intricate craftsmanship behind Maheshwari sarees. At the Maheshwar Sarees Weaving Centre, they observed master weavers creating delicate motifs in silk and cotton, preserving a tradition that dates back to the reign of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar.
A visit to the Ahilyabai Holkar Fort and Maheshwar Ghat provided a glimpse into the region’s regal past, with its riverfront views and intricately carved stone temples offering a picturesque setting for artistic inspiration.
Crafting Leather & Batik Prints in Ujjain and Dewas
The immersion extended to Dewas, where students explored the craftsmanship behind leatherwork, witnessing the precision and skill involved in creating high-quality leather goods.
In Ujjain, the focus shifted to Bherugarh Batik Printing, where students observed the time-honored process of wax-resistant dyeing. This hands-on experience deepened their appreciation for traditional printing techniques and the sustainable practices employed by local artisans.
The day culminated in a spiritual retreat to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of India’s most revered temples. Walking through its magnificent corridors, students reflected on how sacred spaces influence design and architecture, seamlessly blending spirituality with aesthetics.
Industrial Insights & A Journey Back Home
The immersion concluded with an industrial visit in Indore, where students explored modern manufacturing processes, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary production techniques.
As they boarded the train back to Mumbai, students carried with them not just souvenirs but a newfound appreciation for India’s deep-rooted design traditions.
This immersive experience redefined their understanding of craftsmanship, heritage and storytelling through design—lessons that will inspire their future creative endeavours. This local immersion was more than just a journey—it was a transformative exploration of India’s artistic legacy, proving that the best way to learn design is to experience it first-hand.
