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World Saree Day is a tribute to the timeless elegance of the saree and its enduring charm.
World Saree Day provides an opportunity to honour and celebrate this cherished cultural legacy. (Images: Instagram)
World Saree Day, observed annually on December 21, is a global tribute to the timeless elegance, enduring charm and cultural significance of the saree. On this day, people around the world come together to honour this iconic garment, which has draped women in grace for centuries. The occasion celebrates the saree as a symbol of heritage, femininity and diversity.
From its intricate weaves to its colours, the saree is a masterpiece of textile craftsmanship. Its origins date back to ancient India, where it evolved from simple drapes into intricate works of art, adorned with embroidery, beads, sequins and woven motifs.
As we approach this special day, let us explore the history and significance of the saree!
World Saree Day: History
Founded by social activists Sindhura Kaviti and Nistula Hebbar in 2020, World Saree Day was established as a platform to celebrate the intricate craftsmanship and rich heritage of sarees. The movement was initiated by Kaviti, who spearheaded the campaign to designate December 21 as an official day for global recognition.
The initiative quickly garnered attention on social media and within the fashion community, receiving support from prominent figures and organisations worldwide.
World Saree Day 2024: Significance
World Saree Day is a tribute to the timeless elegance of the saree and its enduring charm. The day holds significance on multiple levels, from celebrating cultural preservation to promoting inclusivity and empowerment.
- Celebrating cultural heritage: The saree is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, embodying tradition, grace and beauty. World Saree Day provides an opportunity to honour and celebrate this cherished cultural legacy.
- Honouring weavers: The day also acknowledges the artisans whose artistry and skilled craftsmanship bring these beautiful garments to life. These dedicated weavers and their craftsmanship are the backbone of the saree tradition.
- Promoting Indian handlooms: A key aim of World Saree Day is to promote and preserve the art of handloom weaving, an integral part of India’s textile industry. The day raises awareness about handloom industries, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
- Empowering women: The saree is more than just a garment, it is a symbol of empowerment, making women feel confident, graceful and beautiful.
- Cultural connection: From the luxurious Kanchipuram silks to the colourful Bandhani prints, World Saree Day seeks to give global recognition to the saree and its diverse styles. The day encourages people worldwide to connect with India’s rich culture and embrace traditional attire.
World Saree Day: 5 International Celebrities Who Wore Sarees
The timeless elegance of the saree has captivated the world, and many international celebrities have embraced this iconic Indian attire. Here are a few examples:
Gigi Hadid
During her first visit to India, the supermodel immersed herself in Indian culture by donning a custom Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla ivory chikankari saree with gold zardozi borders. She paired the drape with an intricately embellished golden blouse for an art and cultural event in Mumbai. To complete the look, she accessorised with a stack of ornate bangles and diamond studs.
Zendaya
The Hollywood superstar dolled up in a custom-made Rahul Mishra saree at the launch of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Convention Centre in Mumbai. The deep marine blue drape was embellished with the designer’s signature 3D floral embroidery. Ditching the blouse, the actor-model went for a hand-stitched bralette top that was made up of 3D gold birds. To complete her look, Zendaya accessorised with Serpenti Jewels from Bulgari.
Selena Gomez
The pop sensation stunned fans when she wore a maroon-hued saree during her visit to Nepal. For the event, she donned the six yards of grace with a matching blouse, glass bangles, a beaded necklace and a bindi. Her effortless grace and the saree’s bright colours made for a stunning combination.
Lady Gaga
Known for her bold fashion choices, Lady Gaga stunned her fans when she wore a cream-coloured saree designed by Tarun Tahiliani. The drape was adorned with strands of Swarovski crystals and featured a customised kamarbandh design. The singer-songwriter paired the saree with an embellished blouse, styled her hair in an open look and completed the ensemble with dramatic eye makeup.
Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian left everyone in awe when she embraced a custom-made Manish Malhotra saree. Her striking appearance in a dazzling red saree at Anant Ambani’s wedding was nothing short of breathtaking. Keeping her jewellery understated, Kim carried the Indian ensemble with remarkable grace and elegance.
World Saree Day: 5 Actresses Who Wore 6 Yards Of Magic
Jahnvi Kapoor
Jahnvi Kapoor has consistently mesmerised in six yards of elegance, and her latest appearance in a stunning floral organza saree styled by Ami Patel was no exception. Designed by the celebrity favourite Manish Malhotra, the custom creation featured an ombre of soft pink, lilac, pastel yellow and pale blue hues. Janhvi paired the saree with a full-length sheer blouse, adding a touch of glamour with Swarovski crystals.
Rashmika Mandana
Rashmika Mandanna and a saree make for a stunning combination. The actress effortlessly turns heads with her fashion choices, and her ensemble at a promotional event in Chennai was no exception. She chose a coral chiffon saree with a sleek, shimmery border, showcasing her style. Her stylist paired the saree with a cherry pink sleeveless blouse, golden bangles, a choker and matching earrings.
Shraddha Kapoor
The gorgeous actress made a dazzling entrance at a Diwali party in a signature silver tissue saree by Manish Malhotra. The saree featured a rose gold zari border, which elevated the overall look. Adding the perfect touch of sparkle, Shraddha wore imperial heirloom earrings with uncut diamonds set in 18k gold, complemented by over 149 carats of stunning Russian emeralds.
Khushi Kapoor
The ever-stylish Khushi Kapoor stole the spotlight as a bridesmaid in a stunning Tarun Tahiliani saree. From the designer’s Kasheeda Dreams collection, Khushi embraced traditional elegance, adorned with intricate motifs inspired by Persian carpets and the hand-painted artistry of Kashmiri Jamawar shawls. Her look was elevated with a perfectly coordinated blouse, embellished with sequins, beaded details and zardozi embroidery.
Deepika Padukone
Smile, shine and sparkle like Deepika Padukone did at the 77th British Academy Film Awards red carpet. Making her BAFTA debut as a presenter, Deepika made a statement in a shimmering sequin saree designed by renowned Indian couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Styled by celebrity stylist Shaleena Nathani, the actress paired the saree with a matching backless blouse.
Which saree look did you like the most?
