Vystrit by Saumya Kashyap: Reviving 16th century Old Rattan Art with a Modern Twist!

What if we told you that a 16th-century old art from China could be part of your modern home? A craft so ancient, it’s been passed down through generations, but with a twist—this time, it's given a bold, contemporary makeover. Welcome to Vystrit by Saumya Kashyap, where the elegance of rattan art meets the vibrancy of mixed-media textiles, creating art that feels both timeless and undeniably fresh. Intrigued yet? Hang tight, because what comes next is a journey into the world of forgotten crafts reimagined for the modern age. But before we dive headfirst into the stunning designs, let's first explore the roots of this art form that is as rich in history as it is in beauty.

What Exactly is Rattan Art?

Traditionally found in Southeast Asia, rattan art involves weaving flexible rattan into intricate pieces of decor, furniture, lighting, and more. The technique of wicker weaving is considered one of the oldest furniture-making methods, with evidence found in ancient Egypt dating back to around 3000 BC. Rattan is no ordinary material — it’s a climbing palm vine that thrives in the dense tropical forests of Asia, known for its durability and flexibility. These characteristics make it perfect for crafting stunning and functional pieces like furniture, lamps, baskets, mats, and even wall art.

In India, the roots of rattan art trace back to colonial times, when the British introduced this versatile material to adapt as a practical solution for the hot and humid climate. As time passed, rattan weaving took root and flourished across India, with regions like Kerala, Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh becoming hubs of this craft. During the mid-20th century, particularly between the 1950s and 1980s, rattan furniture became an essential feature in many Indian homes, symbolising both elegance and practicality. The art of weaving with rattan, passed down through generations, became deeply embedded in India's cultural fabric, with each region adding its unique flair and design to the craft. From intricate patterns to elegant finishes, rattan weaving soon became a cherished symbol of India's rich heritage and craftsmanship. Today, this traditional art continues to thrive, blending beautifully with contemporary designs and reminding us of the deep connection between our cultural history and modern living.

Saumya Kashyap and Her Journey to Reinvent Rattan Art

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Now that we know the magic of rattan, let’s talk about the mastermind behind Vystrit — Saumya Kashyap. The founder and chief artist, Saumya embarked on her creative journey in an unexpected way. With a degree in computer science from IIIT Hyderabad, she initially worked in the tech industry. But her artistic instincts were too strong to ignore, and after a few years in the IT world, Saumya followed her heart and ventured into the world of handmade candles. Her handmade candles were showcased at Shilparamam in Hyderabad, igniting a passion for arts and crafts that would shape the rest of her life.

In a move that surprised many, Saumya and her family relocated to Bangalore, where she completed the MPWE program at IIM Bangalore. She then pursued another creative venture in photography, specialising in capturing family moments. However, after taking a long break to focus on her family, she launched Vystrit Designs in 2024, combining her love for art and her entrepreneurial spirit.

Vystrit started as a small venture with a big mission: to create handcrafted, sustainable, and unique art pieces that reflect the essence of Indian culture while embracing modern design elements. The name ‘Vystrit’ means “expanded” in Hindi, symbolising the brand’s goal to extend the horizons of traditional art forms and introduce them to contemporary interiors. Saumya’s vision was clear: to provide beautiful, meaningful art that could be incorporated into everyday living spaces.

But building a brand from scratch was no easy task. Saumya faced numerous challenges, from sourcing ethically produced materials to establishing her brand’s identity. What’s more, she understood the importance of empowering local artisans, particularly women from underserved communities. Today, Vystrit’s all-women team of textile artisans plays a crucial role in producing the brand’s stunning creations, with many of them coming from grassroots backgrounds. These women are given training in textile art, from weaving and stitching to crafting intricate designs, making each piece a testament to their skill and dedication.

Vystrit’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical practices shines through every product. The use of ethically sourced teak wood, natural cane, and reclaimed materials, coupled with the passion and creativity of local artisans, makes Vystrit’s products a true representation of craftsmanship at its finest. No two pieces are alike, which makes each Vystrit creation unique — just like the people behind them.

Preserve a Dying Art Form

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Saumya Kashyap, the visionary behind Vystrit, brings a fresh twist to this ancient art form by mixing teak wood, natural cane webbing, and textiles like yarns and threads. The result? Unique, handcrafted masterpieces that enhance everyday living. But Vystrit’s impact goes beyond design – it’s about empowering an all-women artisan team, offering them skill development, fair wages, and work-life balance. As modern materials threaten the survival of rattan weaving, Vystrit is doing its part to keep this beautiful craft alive, ensuring it thrives in the present and for future generations. By supporting brands like Vystrit, we are not just investing in décor, but in a sustainable future that celebrates heritage while embracing innovation. Let’s preserve this rich tradition and ensure it never fades away!

Where: 3157, 12th Main Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Defence Colony, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka

When: Daily 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM