Saree's Contemporary Voice
In a setting that resonated with reflection and renewal, a significant conversation unfolded, bringing together varied viewpoints on one of India's most
iconic garments. The event, titled 'The Art of the Modern Saree,' hosted at the Art House within the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, transformed into an engaging dialogue. It showcased how the saree has evolved into a vibrant, current form of communication, dictated by personal choices, inventive styling, and unique selfhood. Set against the visually stunning backdrop of an art installation, the discussion, guided by ELLE India's Editorial Director, moved past mere sentimentality. It firmly positioned the saree not as a static representation of the past, but as a fluid expression deeply embedded in the fabric of contemporary culture. The presence of panelists adorned in vintage Satya Paul sarees subtly reinforced the central theme: continuity that embraces progress, and heritage that remains unbound by rigidity. This gathering underscored that the saree's journey is one of constant reinvention, adapting to the rhythms of modern life while retaining its inherent grace and significance.
Diverse Perspectives Emerge
The panel's distinctiveness stemmed not solely from the garment itself, but from the unique ways each participant demonstrated its evolving presence in modern life. Ami Patel, an entrepreneur in the retail sector, exemplifies how contemporary women integrate the saree into their daily routines. She shared her connection, noting her grandfather's saree-making legacy and expressing joy at the widespread desire among women she styles to wear sarees regularly. Patel observed a notable shift from purchasing sarees only for special occasions to embracing them for everyday wear, extending their use beyond conventional settings, even onto international red carpets. She also highlighted the practical advantages of Satya Paul sarees, describing them as lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, referencing Priyanka Chopra's remark about being able to perform a marathon in them. Her insights emphasized how ease, wearability, and adaptability are crucial in redefining the saree for a new generation. Architect and interior designer Ashiesh Shah viewed the saree through a design lens, drawing parallels between architectural principles and the drape. He discussed the significance of proportion, balance, movement, and material quality, explaining the saree's enduring appeal across different eras. Shah provocatively suggested that 'bed covers are sarees bought from Banaras,' illustrating how textiles permeate everyday existence in often unnoticed ways. His assertion that 'gravity dictates the look of a saree' reframed the garment as a dynamic entity, influenced as much by the wearer's movement and surroundings as by its design.
Cultural Threads and Personal Narratives
Cultural writer and commentator Pavitra Rajaram delved into the deeper emotional and philosophical dimensions of the saree, framing it as more than just fashion—a continuous strand of Indian culture. She articulated the saree's cultural resonance, stating, 'India is one where there is continuous culture.' Rajaram elaborated on its layered symbolism, encompassing protest, pride, and intimacy. She recalled how khadi sarees became symbols of protest during a specific historical period and noted the garment's cross-gender and cross-class appeal, mentioning its use in wrapping newborns. Describing the drape itself, she metaphorically linked it to a 'wave' or 'leher,' signifying gentleness and an organic flow, suggesting that the saree's wrap around the body creates a 'full cycle of life.' Her contribution reminded the audience that the saree is not merely worn but is an embodied, inherited experience. Juhi Godambe, an entrepreneur and content creator, introduced the digital and profoundly personal aspects, showcasing how the saree connects with a generation adept at navigating both online and offline spheres. She reflected on what grants a saree timelessness in an era fixated on novelty. Grounding her thoughts in familial memories, she shared that the 'nauvari' reminds her of her grandmother, deeming it timeless and highlighting the significance of heirlooms. Her perspective underscored how younger, style-conscious women are reconnecting with sarees, not as outdated artifacts, but as cherished pieces of personal history that gain deeper meaning over time.
Agency and Modern Expression
Actor and cultural influencer Naina Bhan contributed her lived experience, blending sentiment, style, and self-expression. She discussed how contemporary women are reinterpreting the 'anatomy of a drape' to maintain its relevance, humorously noting the resurgence of 'desi internet baddies.' Bhan shared a personal anecdote about eyeing her mother's Satya Paul saree, describing it as a 'full-circle moment.' Addressing the common perception of sarees being difficult to wear, she confidently asserted, 'You'll be able to manage in a saree? Yes. One hundred percent.' For Bhan, the saree is ultimately about empowerment and self-agency, stating, 'It's a sense of pride... when you give it form, you can command a courtroom and you can be a desi internet baddie.' Her viewpoint masterfully connected ideas of identity, confidence, and individuality within the context of a historically rich garment. Across the entirety of the discussion, it became evident that the saree's enduring relevance today lies in its adaptability—culturally, aesthetically, and emotionally. It can be both historical and current, individual yet communal, traditional yet radically contemporary. The saree's continued presence is not solely sustained by nostalgia; it thrives because each generation reinterprets it through how it is worn, styled, and passed down. As the panel concluded, it was clear this was more than just a talk about clothing; it was a celebration of identity, creativity, and the profound power of personal choice. The saree, in its full seven-yard glory, emerged as more than just attire—it is a living language, a versatile canvas, and a vessel for memory and self-expression. In the hands of contemporary Indian women, the saree is actively claimed, celebrated, and reinvented, standing as an enduring symbol of tradition, uniqueness, and modernity.
