Handcrafted Potli Bag (batawa) | Traditional Indian Drawstring Pouch

There are accessories bought to complete an outfit and there are accessories that become the thing people notice first. At a wedding, a mehendi, or a Navratri gathering, a well-made potli bag does both — it holds what you need and it says something about the care you took getting dressed. The Potli Bag (Batawa) by Shobha Fashion is that kind of piece. Made from velvet and Paithani cloth, densely worked with hand embroidery, mirror inserts, and a gold bead fringe running the full width of the base, it is unmistakably festive without trying too hard. The magenta is vivid but the gold work is what carries the weight — layered, detailed, and reflecting light the way only hand-applied embellishment can. Fabric and Base Material The body of the batawa is made from velvet, a fabric that has long been associated with richness and depth of colour in Indian craft traditions. Velvet holds embroidery well, gives embellishments a surface to anchor into, and catches light differently from silk or cotton — deeper and more dimensional. The Paithani cloth used in construction brings the weaving heritage of Maharashtra directly into the piece, grounding it in a regional textile tradition that carries its own history and prestige. Together, these two materials give the batawa both structure and softness — firm enough to hold its shape when carried, supple enough to sit comfortably in the hand. Embroidery and Embellishments The entire surface of the bag is worked with gold zari embroidery in an intricate repeating pattern — arched scallops at the top, geometric chevrons in the middle band, and floral and leaf motifs across the lower body. Set within and around this embroidery are circular mirrors of varying sizes, catching and reflecting light as the bag moves. Gold and silver sequins are scattered through the pattern, adding further shimmer without overcrowding the design. The bottom edge is finished with a full fringe of gold metal tube beads, evenly spaced and hanging in a neat row that catches movement and light with every step. On either side of the drawstring opening sit pink fabric tassels in a gathered, pleated form — the same vivid magenta as the bag body, providing a clean contrast against the gold work. The handle is a flat fabric loop in matching magenta, practical for carrying over the wrist or slipping over the arm when the hands are occupied. Closure and Carry The bag closes with a gold braided drawstring that cinches the gathered top, keeping contents secure. The opening is wide enough for easy access but snug enough when pulled closed that nothing shifts around inside. It holds a phone, folded cash, lipstick, and small essentials without straining the seams. Where It Works The Batawa is suited to weddings, sangeet and mehendi functions, Navratri garba nights, Diwali celebrations, engagement ceremonies, and any occasion where ethnic wear calls for an accessory with presence. It pairs naturally with lehengas, heavily worked sarees, and Anarkali suits — particularly in warm tones like red, orange, ivory, and gold that sit well against the magenta base. It also works as a gift — for a bride, a bridesmaid, or a woman who collects handcrafted Indian accessories. Packed well, it presents beautifully. Specifications Fabric: Velvet and Paithani cloth Embellishments: Gold zari embroidery, mirror work, sequins Fringe: Gold metal tube beads along base edge Tassels: Magenta fabric, gathered and pleated Handle: Flat fabric loop in self-colour Closure: Gold braided drawstring Available Colours: White, Orange, Blue, Pink, Black, Maroon, Yellow, Baby Pink, Lavender Size: 25 cm Net Weight: 100 g Care Do not machine wash. Spot clean gently with a dry or barely damp cloth. Avoid contact with water on the embroidered surface as it may loosen mirror adhesive or cause zari to tarnish. Store in a soft cloth pouch away from direct sunlight. Handle the bead fringe carefully to avoid bending or tangling. About the Entrepreneur Shobha has been doing tailoring work for twenty years, from which she started making batwa handbags ten years ago. Having been with Mann Deshi for ten years, she always received support from Mann Deshi for everything, and Shobha is now proud to say that she is a Mann Deshi entrepreneur and her products have reached worldwide.