India, Feb. 1 -- The stone corridors of the venue seemed to breathe during the opening of the second edition of Anant Samagam. A grounded warmth filled the space as the Aalekh Foundation presented an initiative that reflects the homecoming of India's diverse artistic soul. One could trace the map of India just by touching the fabrics on display. The natural, honeyed glow of Assam's Muga silk felt right at home next to the bold, hand-tied patterns of Rajasthan's Bandhani. Looking closely at the fine Jamdani and the pieces by designers like Pallavi Jaipur and Bappaditya Biswas, you really start to appreciate the tired eyes and steady hands of the weavers who still do this work by choice.

The afternoon started with a quiet sort of respect a...