In a cross-disciplinary fusion of fashion and fine craftsmanship, Delhi-based fashion label NorBlack NorWhite and jewellery designer Bhavya Ramesh have launched STARE, a collaborative jewellery collection released this month that reimagines traditional Indian protective talismans for the contemporary wearer. The collection, which debuted across the designers’ digital platforms, blends the protective symbolism of the ‘nazar battu’ with edgy, modern aesthetics like fangs and traditional ghunghroos to explore the intersection of vulnerability and feminine strength.
The Intersection of Heritage and Modernity
The collaboration bridges two distinct creative worlds: NorBlack NorWhite’s penchant for vibrant, culturally rooted street style and Bhavya Ramesh’s reputation for bold, unconventional metalwork. By focusing on the ‘evil eye’—a cultural motif prevalent in Indian folklore for warding off negativity—the designers have moved beyond classic iconography to create pieces that feel both ancient and avant-garde.
Historically, the nazar battu has served as a fixture in Indian households and on clothing, intended to deflect malevolent gazes. By transposing these symbols into wearable accessories, the collaboration acknowledges the enduring need for personal protection in a modern, hyper-visible digital age.
Anatomy of the Collection
The STARE collection utilizes sterling silver and oxidized metals to ground its experimental designs. The inclusion of fangs serves as a literal interpretation of aggression turned into defense, while the integration of ghunghroos—small bells traditionally used in classical Indian dance—adds an auditory element that demands attention.
According to the designers, the project was born from a mutual interest in how jewelry serves as a sensory shield. Each piece is designed to be tactile, encouraging the wearer to engage with the object as a grounding mechanism during moments of stress or external scrutiny.
Expert Perspectives on Symbolic Jewellery
Market analysts note that the ‘protection jewellery’ segment has seen a significant uptick in interest since 2020. As consumers navigate increasing global uncertainty, there is a measurable shift toward accessories that provide a sense of psychological comfort, moving beyond purely aesthetic appeal.
