A Bird In Hand

Baaya, a new home store named after the Indian weaver bird, holds its treasures close to its nest. Housed in a tiny space deep inside the labyrinthine lanes of Mahalaxmi, its wares seem disappointingly pedestrian at first glance: banal candleholders and done-to-death stick figurines are displayed prominently – the only thing missing is a Buddha bust.

Right Off

Just as we were about to write off the store completely, we spotted the fruit picks. Packed into cute jute bags, they were finger-long, elegantly hewed from guava wood (Rs 440), and our first clue that Baaya had much potential.

We combed through the shelves more closely, finding other delights: brass door handles straight out of a Bastar haveli, intricately carved with leaves, warriors, petals (Rs 650); Gond paintings from Madhya Pradesh (Rs 3,500); papier-mâché lamps shaped like giant mushrooms (Rs 2,000); terra cotta sheep that fit in the palm of our hand (Rs 350).

Far and Wide

Owned by NID graduate Shibani Jain and her partner, Baaya sources products from rural artists and tribal groups all over the country, including West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. They also customise, and can create a bright mural sized to your window, or get Kalighat art painted directly onto your wall.

Enduring Pleasures

Small budget and out of the way, Baaya may end up being a flash in the pan, one of those transient stores that open and shut down without creating much of a ripple. But we suggest you make a visit – you might come away with buys that you’ll enjoy for a long time to come.

Getting There: Baaya, store number 24, Laxmi Woolen Mills Compound, Shakti Mill Lane, near Famous Studio, Mahalaxmi, email baayadesign@gmail.com.