What you see – A passing glance at a clothing store Vinayaka Sarees that sits on Green Park Road, opposite St Anthony’s Church, in Vizag, virtually brings us to a halt. Through a small wrought-iron gate and a picket fence, MetroMela sees a stylish collection of women’s sarees and some rather classy kurtis. We step in to realize that the unusual décor, reminiscent of a quaint country-side cottage, transforms into an ethnic ambience of large mirrors, bandhini-splashed walls and festive saffron colors. We see sarees of all shades and makes, and a collection of salwar-kameez fabrics and kurtis filling up shelves and hooked racks.
What you get – Vinayaka Sarees in Vizag is owned by Renuka Aggarwal. The store, with a boutique feel to it, has an exclusive collection of women’s ethnic wear in sarees (popular super-net to the heavily-embroidered crepes, georgettes, silks and cottons) and in ready-to-alter salwar-kameez sets. The range is mainly in ‘pure’ fiber. We explore exquisite Kota, Chikan, Kalamkari, Mangalgiri, Bandhini and Venkatgiri weaves that are both colorful and stated, from bright orange and red to pastel lavender and pink.
Most carry either light or heavy embroidery (according to your liking), and a few are even hand-painted in Indian motifs. Prices go from Rs. 600 to Rs. 15, 000. The salwar–kameez sets are half-stitched, in ready-to-alter sizes, and are well coordinated (Rs. 600 onwards) and the kurtis are trendy (Rs. 675 onwards). We also check out a few heavy ghaghra cholis (Rs. 10, 000 to Rs. 20, 000). Renuka takes up select orders to design sarees for weddings and festive occasions as well.
Our verdict – MetroMela thinks Vinayaka Sarees in Vizag is ideal for festive shopping as the store caters to a select clientele. Sarees here don’t come cheap. But the range is great and unusual. Certainly deserves a visit. Parking space is limited. Anytime between – 10.30 – 2 PM and 4.30 PM – 8.30 PM (Closed on Sundays