A Salwar Kameez for Ambika

In an era of ready-to-wear fashion and instant gratification, “A Salwar Kameez for Ambika” is a story that honours the fading tradition of having garments tailor-made. Reading it transported me back to the lanes of my hometown, where my mum and I would take a rickshaw to Sardarji’s stall to buy dress materials. Sardarji would unveil each fabric with theatrical flair, displaying not just his wares but his knowledge of textures and colours, all while intuitively reading the customer’s taste and gently persuading them toward the perfect choice.

The visit to the tailor is described just as authentically. Salwar kameezes were never bought off the shelf - darzis helped you envision the final piece, sketching possibilities with their words and measuring tapes. And then came the anticipation for the stitched garment, a small ritual of waiting that made the final reveal feel like a celebration - one stitched not just with thread, but with memory, care, and community.

Loved this book! I will definitely order a hard copy! Book releases on 14 April 2026.