New Delhi, Feb. 13 -- In a quiet corner of Delhi's 9,000 sq. ft Textile Gallery hangs a backpack that tells stories of India's northernmost region, Ladakh. Shaped like a tiger, it references one of the five mythical creatures in Buddhism, which is widely practised in the region. Crafted from a blend of lambswool, cashmere and pashmina, it points to Ladakh's rich repertoire of fine fibres. Its three-dimensional form-brought alive through hand embroidery, applique and fringe-work-is indicative of the endless possibilities that can emerge when traditional crafts combine with contemporary, functional design to create a piece of wearable art.

"The bag comes with a tiger mask as a symbol of protection," says Jigmat Norbu, founder of Leh-based ...