PAYANAM by Anavila - A Luxurious Journey Through Chettinad's Opulent Heritage

Inspired by the grandeur of Chettinad's rich heritage and the lavish lifestyles of its people, PAYANAM—meaning "journey" in Tamil—stands as a remarkable textile collection. With a harmonious blend of local craftsmanship and global influences, this collection takes center stage at the Chettinad Heritage and Cultural Festival, offering a unique celebration of artistry.

Each piece in the collection captures the elegance of Chettinad’s grand mansions while incorporating elements from around the world, such as European classical architecture, Burmese gemstones, and the intricate Minton tiles that inspired Chettinad’s iconic Athangudi tiles. With vibrant murals featuring mythical characters like yali and peacocks, the textiles narrate a story of cultural grandeur and timeless beauty.

Hand-Woven Masterpieces

At the heart of PAYANAM are its exquisite hand-woven textiles. Experimentation with yarns brings monochromatic linens and bold checkered patterns to life, intricately woven with metallic zari to reflect the opulence of Chettinad. Inspired by the architectural blueprints of Chettinad mansions, these designs capture both the aesthetic and spirit of this historic region.

From plain weaves featuring linen and zari yarns to intricate patterns that evoke the vivid colors of the Chettinad landscape, each textile is a canvas for creativity. The collection also reimagines traditional South Indian sari borders in fine linens, showcasing the balance between innovation and tradition. Hand embroidery and appliqué add an artisanal touch, while mythical chimeras and iconic Chettinad horses offer rich visual layers.

Fashion with a Festive Flair

Every outfit reflects the beauty of the textile, merging cultural significance with modern design sensibilities. This blend of luxury and versatility ensures that PAYANAM can be worn for a variety of occasions, whether you’re celebrating tradition or embracing the contemporary.

The Timeless Jewelry of Meenu Subbiah

The jewelry selection in PAYANAM is equally breathtaking, curated by Chettinad-based designer Meenu Subbiah. With a background in diamonds from GIA-USA and a legacy of crafting heritage jewelry, Meenu Subbiah reimagines traditional Chettinad jewelry, drawing inspiration from ancient temple motifs. Her collection, Timeless Chettinad, beautifully complements the elegance of PAYANAM’s textiles, creating a harmonious fusion of past and present.

Anavila Misra: A Pioneer of Sustainable Luxury

Since establishing her eponymous brand in 2012, Anavila Misra has become a leader in the world of sustainable luxury, crafting timeless designs that honor both tradition and the environment.