August 9, 2023
2 mins read

750 Indian-origin women take part in ‘Saree Walkathon’  

Vinita Shri, a developmental pediatrician from Chhattisgarh, graced an Adivasi-inspired saree, amplifying their voice and embodying their identity…reports Asian Lite News

The streets of London donned vibrant hues of India as 750 Indian-origin women paraded from the iconic Trafalgar Square to Parliament Square as part of a ‘Saree Walkathon’. They adorned state-specific sarees to mark National Handloom Day.

The procession was the brainchild of ‘British Women In Sarees’, conceived during August’s heritage month to honor National Handloom Day.

“On August 6, under the radiant sun, 750 of us, joined by 70 marshals, congregated in Central London. The streets reverberated with the chants of ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Jana Gana Mana,’ accompanied by melodies of popular songs,” recounted Dipti Jain, founder of British Women in Sarees.

“The entire area was alive with celebratory voices, commemorating National Handloom Day through the Saree Walkathon. Central London came alive with a sea of colorful sarees, representing diverse Indian states, uniting in joy and revelry,” she added.

“We aim to enhance the lives of our country’s artisans, with each woman contributing in her own way. The proceeds beyond event costs will benefit two artisans, one in South India and the other in Kolkata. Our commitment remains steadfast,” said Rashmi Mishra, founder of Indian Women in the UK.

Representatives from each Indian state held placards, donning weaves that epitomised their regions. “Just as a saree is woven from thousands of threads, this walkathon is the culmination of thousands of women uniting to represent India in the UK,” said Rakhi Singh, who was representing Rajasthan. She donned a leharia-bandhni saree with gota-patti work.

Nivedita, representing Karnataka, donned a 60-year-old Molakalmuru saree, that takes 4-5 weeks to weave. “This was a cherished gift from my grandmother. Wearing it is a tribute to her memory on the anniversary of her passing,” she shared emotionally.

Vinita Shri, a developmental pediatrician from Chhattisgarh, graced an Adivasi-inspired saree, amplifying their voice and embodying their identity.

Saree styles from India, like Kantha, Baluchari, Chanderi, Benarasi, Maheshwari, and more, were showcased.

The walkathon culminated at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Parliament Square, facing the British Parliament.

ALSO READ-Saree walkathon in London on National Handloom Day

Previous Story

Russia looks at BRICS for solution to Ukrainian crisis

Next Story

Chinese political slogans in London’s Graffiti area sparks row

Latest from -Top News

Mass Expulsions Close Afghan Shops in Pakistan

As Pakistan intensifies its mass deportation drive against Afghan refugees, the once-bustling Afghan-owned businesses in Rawalpindi are falling silent. With the March 31 deadline for repatriation passed, a growing number of Afghan-run

South Korea Sets June 3 Presidential Election

South Korea will hold a presidential election on June 3, the government confirmed on Tuesday, setting the stage for a new leadership following the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk

RPP Rallies for Return of Nepal’s Monarchy

Police on alert as royalist rallies return to the capital Kathmandu witnessed heightened tensions on Tuesday as the pro-monarchy Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) staged a high-profile demonstration demanding the reinstatement of Nepal’s
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Embrace Tradition with Straavi’s Festive Saree Collection

Banarasi silk sarees are known for their rich and intricate

Let’s go back to sarees in this festive season

Kanchipuram’s weavers are considered to be descendants of the sage