Treasures of Tradition: Our Exhilarating Fifth and Sixth Days in India

As our buying trip in India unfolds, the fifth and sixth days have been nothing short of exhilarating, filled with the warmth of friendship and the thrill of discovery. We spent these days at our dear friends’ factory, finalizing the selections we had made and diving deeper into the treasure trove of unique items they offer.

Our main mission during these days is to finalize all the carefully selected items we’ve been eyeing. David takes the lead as the designated treasure hunter. With stacks of items piled high on bookcase shelves and nestled among coffee tables, he roamed the space, carefully sifting through an array of choices. David has a particular fondness for the slightly “gnarly” pieces — those that carry a story within them. From captivating hooks and charming candle stands to statues and traditional grinders, he took his time to curate a selection that resonated with character and history. These quirky items seem to have an aura about them, each one telling a story that beckons to be shared.

A noteworthy adventure led us to what we affectionately dubbed the Nandi “hospital,” a delightful spot where we found even more unique Nandi pieces in need of some extra love and care. The joy of rescuing and nurturing these pieces felt rewarding and it’ll be great to see them restored to their former glory.

What’s truly fascinating about these buying days is the constant flow of new pieces that seem to appear out of nowhere. Each time we visit, there’s something fresh to add to our selection, ensuring that our journey is never mundane. The thrill of uncovering these new items keeps us on our toes and adds an element of surprise to each day.

Within our discoveries were some enchanting printer trays that we had requested, which had magically travelled from Gujarat, just waiting for us to give them a new purpose.

Among the many finds of the day, one piece stood out and captured all our hearts — a stunning three-door sideboard crafted from rich teak wood. It features intricately carved old window panel doors that exude elegance. The natural, muted finish of this sideboard is incredibly pleasing to the eye, making it a favourite not just for Dad but for all of us. It perfectly embodies the beauty of craftsmanship that we aim to bring back to the UK and symbolises the essence of our trip— a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary design.

Before embarking on this trip, we compiled a list of customer requests, and we are thrilled to have finalized several selections during these two days. The excitement is palpable as we look forward to sending these unique finds to their new homes back in the UK.

As we wrap up our time in the factory, we’re filled with gratitude for the friendships we’ve built and the experiences we’ve shared. These days spent amidst creativity and craftsmanship not only enrich our collection but also deepen our connection with the stories behind each piece.