The Royal Edit, an ongoing exhibition of heirloom sarees, showcases Vijayalakshmi Silks Limited's 105-year journey. From its roots in Karnataka's silk industry to its global acclaim, the story of VSL is intertwined with the history of silk in India.
Bengaluru, at the heart of India's silk ecosystem, has been a hub for sericulture since the 7th century. The city's silk industry flourished under the patronage of the Vijayanagara empire and Tipu Sultan, who introduced Chinese silkworms to the region.
After a decline, sericulture was revived in the 19th century by Italian expert Signor de Vecchi and later by JN Tata, who brought in Japanese expertise. The Tata Silk Farm won global acclaim at the London Silk Exhibition in 1912.
Vijayalakshmi Silks Limited, founded in 1915, has been a leading purveyor of fine silks in Bengaluru. The company's 105-year journey is marked by its commitment to preserving traditional weaving techniques and promoting Indian silk.
The Royal Edit exhibition, running until April 24, is a testament to VSL's legacy and its contribution to Bengaluru's rich silk heritage.
