Mumbai, 9th December 2023: In a commitment to responsible celebrations, ITC Maratha, a leading luxury hotel in Mumbai, has collaborated with the skilled artisans of Sawantwadi, to add a touch of traditional craftsmanship to this festive season. Building upon the triumph of last year’s eco-conscious installation, this year’s Christmas Tree lighting celebration emerges as a captivating spectacle of visual and cultural grandeur, seamlessly fusing the timeless artistry of traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary and luxurious flair.
Recognizing the unparalleled talent and artistry of the Sawantwadi artisans, ITC Maratha embarked on this initiative to celebrate the spirit of Christmas while championing the craftsmanship deeply rooted in Indian culture. Inspired by the rich artistic heritage of Sawantwadi and building on the theme of sustainability and cultural richness, this year’s Christmas Tree is adorned with more than 400 meticulously crafted wooden toys, bringing to life the age-old tradition of Sawantwadi Lacquer. The installation serves not only as a visual delight but also as a testament to ITC Maratha’s commitment to preserving and promoting local craftsmanship.
The illumination of the Christmas tree was conducted by the esteemed Bollywood actor, accomplished photographer, and distinguished voice artist, Boman Irani, alongside the radiant star Piya Valecha. Their presence added a touch of glamour to the event as they not only lit up the tree but also expressed their admiration for its unparalleled beauty and uniqueness.
Speaking on the concept, Bhagwan Balani, General Manager for ITC Maratha Hotel, Mumbai “ “This year, ITC embraces a celebration of responsibility by championing the talents of Sawantwadi artists. Our upcoming festivities promise to unfold as a captivating visual and cultural spectacle, seamlessly weaving together time-honoured craftsmanship with a contemporary touch. Drawing inspiration from Sawantwadi’s opulent artistic heritage and centring around themes of sustainability and cultural opulence, our Christmas Tree for this year breathes life into the age-old tradition of Sawantwadi Lacquer. This exquisite installation serves not only as a visual delight but also stands as a profound testament to ITC Maratha’s unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of local craftsmanship. As a team, we take immense pride in spearheading this initiative, and we wholeheartedly encourage our esteemed guests to demonstrate their support for this noble cause and the talented artisans behind it by visiting this extraordinary installation.”
