TEXTILE GALLERY

The splendour of the textiles from Scindia’s Chanderi in different styles can be seen in our textile gallery. The Chanderi weavers were patronised by Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia I who invested in this project emotionally, financially, and by all other feasible means. In 1910 the gold motif was introduced in Chanderi sarees under the Scindia patronage. The most popular and traditional kind of motif (Buti) is the Asharfi Buti (shaped like a gold coin), which is woven in pure gold and silver threads. An exquisite piece of craftsmanship, the famous Shinde Shahi Pagdi of the dynasty is displayed in this gallery in its full glory. The 55 - 60 metre fine count pure cotton cloth was hand tied by the Royal Pagadbandh (turban crafter). The family proudly nurtures the talents of turban crafters. Pagdis used by Sardars/nobles of the Scindia Royal Darbar varied in length and ornamentation according to their position in the court. The gallery also exhibits a set of two silver thrones that were specially designed for the Viceroy of India and His Highness Jiwaji Rao Scindia for their tour of Gwalior.