FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) marked the occasion of World Saree Day on Friday, December 21, at Hotel Leela in Banjara Hills, with a special event dedicated to celebrating the iconic six-yard drape. In commemoration of World Saree Day, FLO organized a pre-event talk titled “The Saree – Six Yards of Sustainable Heritage” on December 20.
The event featured a conversation between Sanjay Garg, the pioneering textile designer and founder of the Raw Mango brand, and Priya Gazdar, Chairperson of FLO Hyderabad. Together, they delved into the history, evolution, and modern-day relevance of the saree.
The Enduring Legacy of the Saree
Sanjay Garg, known for his contributions to Indian textiles, shared fascinating insights about the saree’s rich history and its evolution over time. He emphasized that the saree, a garment that has stood the test of time, remains timeless and continues to hold cultural significance. “Saree will not go out of fashion as long as people wear saree,” he remarked, highlighting its deep roots in Indian tradition.
The saree, believed to be over 5,000 years old, was first cultivated and woven in ancient India around 5,000 BC. Early weavers used natural dyes like indigo, turmeric, and red madder to create the iconic cotton drape. “And there is no looking back since then,” Sanjay added, noting how the saree has continued to evolve through different eras, from the British Era to the influence of Bollywood and modern designer sarees.
Fashion Meets Tradition
Sanjay also discussed the saree’s adaptability to changing fashion trends. “The saree has undergone many changes over time, adapting to fashion trends while preserving its essence,” he shared. These changes include variations in fabric, design, length, accessories, and even the rise of “one-minute” sarees that cater to contemporary lifestyles.
The growing trend of blending traditional sarees with Western attire was also a focal point of the conversation. “The saree is such a flexible garment that you can mix and match it with ethnic, Western wear, and anything else,” Sanjay explained. This fusion of East and West has given birth to the Indo-Western fashion category, combining the grace of sarees with modern fashion elements to create contemporary, stylish looks.
A National and Global Symbol
When asked about the saree’s popularity in India, Sanjay pointed out regional preferences, stating that the saree is most popular in South India, followed by the East, West, and North. He also highlighted the global appeal of the saree, especially in Southeast Asia, where countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have embraced the garment.
The saree’s international popularity was further showcased by global celebrities such as Serena and Venus Williams, Oprah Winfrey, and Julia Roberts, who wore sarees during high-profile events like the G-20 summit. Sanjay noted that the saree has also become a power dress for women in politics, symbolizing empowerment and elegance.
Overcoming Challenges: Connecting the Young to Saree
Addressing the younger generation’s declining interest in wearing sarees, Sanjay suggested that educating them on the saree’s versatility is key. “Saree can be draped in more than 150 styles, and it can be as fashionable as any other garment,” he said, emphasizing the saree’s timeless appeal for women of all ages.
However, he also acknowledged the practical challenges of wearing a saree in today’s fast-paced world, particularly for urban women. The inconvenience of commuting, driving, and engaging in daily activities often makes functional clothing like jeans or salwar kameez more popular among younger women.
Raw Mango: A Brand Rooted in Heritage
Speaking about the success of his brand Raw Mango, Sanjay explained that its designs are deeply rooted in Indian heritage. “Our designs are constantly innovating, pushing boundaries while staying connected to our roots,” he said. Flexibility in approach and design innovation has been a cornerstone of the brand’s success.
FLO Chairperson’s Opening Remarks
Priya Gazdar, Chairperson of FLO Hyderabad, began the event by emphasizing the cultural and spiritual significance of the saree. “We are proud to wear the world’s oldest garment,” she stated. She also highlighted the saree’s portrayal in ancient Indian texts as a celestial gift symbolizing grace, purity, and intellect. According to ancient scriptures, the saree represents protection, and its pleats signify streams of knowledge.
Priya further added that the saree is not only a symbol of India’s cultural heritage but also a means to empower rural artisans and sustain traditional crafts. “Keeping this ancient tradition alive is about more than just preserving a garment or craft. It’s about honoring our heritage and creating a sustainable future,” she said.
A Call for Sustainable Fashion
The event concluded with a renewed call to embrace the saree, not just as a piece of clothing but as a symbol of cultural pride, sustainability, and empowerment. Both Sanjay Garg and Priya Gazdar emphasized the need for the younger generation to reconnect with this heritage and keep the saree’s legacy alive for generations to come..
FLO’s celebration of World Saree Day served as a reminder of the saree’s timeless elegance, rich history, and its relevance in both traditional and modern fashion landscapes.
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