Swadesh, an initiative by Nita Ambani’s Reliance Foundation, is bringing a touch of Indian luxury to Paris. The India House at the Paris Olympics, which opened to visitors today, features a Swadesh pavilion that highlights India’s rich history of textiles and handicrafts.
India House at Paris Olympics
India House is the nation’s inaugural country house at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. It was conceptualized by the Reliance Foundation in partnership with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Besides appreciating Indian handicrafts at the Swadesh pavilion, Olympic fans can also sample chaat and enjoy desi performances at India House.
Nita Ambani’s Vision
Reliance Foundation chairperson Nita Ambani, who was unanimously re-elected as a member of the International Olympic Committee from India this year, called Swadesh an initiative to promote India’s arts and crafts and an ode to the country’s artisans.
Showcasing Indian Handicrafts
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The official Instagram account of India House shared inside glimpses of the Swadesh handicrafts pavilion. The pavilion showcases painted plates, intricately woven rugs, tapestries, metalwork figurines, Jaipuri block-printed bags, fabrics, and more.
Instagram Highlights
“Our story hits a new milestone with the Swadesh Pavilion at @indianolympichouse. As the nation rallies behind its athletes for the Paris Olympics, we celebrate the spirit of our very own artisans,” Swadesh posted on Instagram. “Join us in honoring both, as we showcase the finest of Indian craftsmanship on a global stage,” the caption read.
Swadesh’s Journey
Nita Ambani had launched the first standalone Swadesh handicrafts store in Hyderabad last year. “Swadesh is an ode to Indian art and artisans. It is wonderful to start our journey of ‘Swadesh’ from Hyderabad. India has a rich history of culture and tradition. So, Swadesh is a humble tribute to the artisans of India,” she said at the launch event in November 2023.
Opening Ceremony Attendance
The Reliance Foundation chairperson attended the Paris Olympics opening ceremony on Friday along with her husband Mukesh Ambani.
