Visakhapatnam has a new destination for traditional Indian textiles with Kalaa, a sari store created by the Kankatala family, whose association with Indian textiles spans generations. The store brings together the family’s Andhra heritage, its longstanding relationships with weavers and a broader appreciation of India’s diverse textile traditions.

 

Spread across 7,100 square feet over two floors, Kalaa was designed by experiential designer Devika Narain. Rather than following a conventional retail layout, the space draws inspiration from the familiarity of an old home, featuring courtyards, passages, carved wood, brass lamps and woven surfaces.

The interiors also reflect the region’s cultural identity. A distinctive blue, inspired by the weathered doors and painted columns of Simhachalam Temple, runs through the store. A hand-painted depiction of the temple further connects the design to Visakhapatnam’s heritage.

One of the store’s central features is a sculptural brass boat decorated with magenta and gold brocade. It serves as a display installation, with an emerald-green silk sari featuring an ornate zari border draped across it. The boat reflects memories of Visakhapatnam and the journeys associated with the movement of textiles and traditions.

Kalaa’s collection extends beyond the South Indian weaves traditionally associated with the Kankatala name. Kanjivaram and Gadwal saris sit alongside Jamdani, Chanderi and Kota, bringing different regional weaving styles together in one space.

According to Harper’s Bazaar India, the store also emphasises the craftsmanship behind each sari, including the intricacies of weaving, the skills of artisans and the knowledge passed between generations.