Baarique by Malika Budhiraj aims to bring tradition to the table with its handcrafted and beautifully curated tableware collection.
Indian heritage and handicrafts have always found their way into our hearts through our wardrobes, but lately, we are witnessing the charm of Indian heritage in our homes too. Intricate and classic handicrafts will always be one of India’s strongest pillars and homegrown brands like Baarique support this notion. Launched by Malika Budhiraj through Kickstarter, Baarique tells a story that highlights the artistry of Indian heritage through handcrafted tableware. Known to adorn many a restaurant table, hand-painted tableware with floral motifs and delicate details is one of the brand’s many highlights. Crafted from bronze and brass, the tableware not only represents Indian beauty but also offers the health benefits of these two materials. Led by feminine power, the collections here at Baarique are bursting with vibrant colors, block painting, fragrant flowers and more. The founder takes us on this traditional journey and gives us an insight into her vision.
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What motivated you to start this journey?
What started as a small art project in a basement has grown into a brand that is now associated with some of the world’s most sought-after restaurants. Baarique was born out of a deep love of art and a desire to revive the fading tradition of hand-crafted tableware and ensure that these beautiful pieces are treasured for generations to come.
How does your tableware represent the rich palette and culture of India?
A reflection of India’s rich palette and diverse culture, our tableware is carefully designed to capture the essence of our heritage. Each piece pays homage to the traditional art forms and elements that have shaped our cultural identity. We draw inspiration from the bold patterns of the Kalamkari dupattas my mother wore when I was growing up. Their intricate designs are a testament to the craftsmanship of Indian artisans. The scent of Chameli flowers that I remember from my grandmother’s temple finds its way into our designs, evoking the serenity of these holy places. The delicate Jamuni hues of the lavender fields in Jammu represent the beauty that graces our land.
At Baarique, each collection is designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, with the aim of bringing this cultural diversity into your dining experience.
Why are brass and bronze the perfect choice for tableware? Are there any special features to consider?
We believe in handcrafting metals in our designs that offer Ayurvedic benefits. We work extensively with Bronze/Kansa and Brass/Pital, which subtly emphasize wellbeing. To help you better understand how each metal contributes to an experience, we have listed some of their holistic benefits.
Bronze/Canada
78% copper and 22% tin
The alkalizing effect of bronze on water and food promotes the development of healthy red blood cells. Regular use of bronze in our tableware can help prevent stomach problems, diabetes and skin diseases.
Brass/Pital
67% copper and 33% zinc
Water stored in brass vessels is an effective remedy against water-borne diseases. The water stored in these vessels always remains fresh and never becomes stale.
What do you think are the strongest pillars of Indian culture and how does “Baarique” integrate them?
The strongest pillar of Indian culture is our art. It weaves a timeless thread between generations through heirlooms like cuisines, stories, mythological tales, clothing and jewelry. These creative expressions preserve and celebrate our culture and roots. At Baarique, we honor this tradition by carefully incorporating art into each piece, ensuring that each piece carries forward the essence of our cultural heritage.
Tell us about the vision behind the title?
‘Baarique’ captures the essence of traditional opulence. Inspired by the word ‘Baroque’, known for its ornate and elaborate style, Baarique reflects our commitment to creating art through tableware. We design pieces that celebrate cultural heritage while enhancing the dining experience. Our vision is to create tableware that embodies timeless art and brings India’s rich heritage to your table.
All photos: Baarique/IG
Note:
The information in this article is correct as of the date of publication.
