'Saree Goes Global': More Than 500 Women Gather At Times Square NYC To Celebrate Sarees

The event was not just a 'celebration of cultural diversity but also a platform to support artisans in rural India, preserving traditional craftsmanship', a press release said.

Members of the Indian-American community with others during 'Saree Goes Global' event at Times Square, in New York. ( Image Source :PTI )

Over 500 women reached Times Square in New York to celebrate the timeless elegance, heritage and cultural diversity of the saree on Saturday. According to PTI, the ‘Saree Goes Global’ event saw the participation of Indian women, as well as those from at least nine other countries where the garment is popular, including Bangladesh and Nepal, the UK, the USA, the UAE, and Uganda.

The event was hosted by ‘British Women in Sarees’ in partnership with the Uma organisation. ‘British Women in Sarees’ is committed to raising awareness about the saree while supporting the handloom artisans in India through global events. Uma, headquartered in New York, empowers underprivileged girls, youth and women through educational and cultural resources.

The event sought to showcase the timeless elegance of the saree through music, dance and a vibrant 'saree walkathon'.

'Saree Goes Global' Event In Times Square 

The participants wore colourful sarees with exquisite embellishments, embroidery, styles and fabrics, including khadi. The women proudly showcased their collection as they waved their national flags, danced together, took pictures and shared stories about their sarees, culture and heritage.

“We are showcasing our support to the weavers as saree is a dying industry. The proceeds we make from the event will be given to three families of weavers.”

VIDEO | More than 500 women from the Indian community as well as other nations participated in the ‘Saree Goes Global’ event hosted by ‘British Women in Sarees’ in partnership with Uma in New York, USA. The event showcased the timeless elegance of the Saree through music, dance… pic.twitter.com/4XMccmSEU7

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 5, 2024

In a press release, it was said that the event was not just a “celebration of cultural diversity but also a platform to support artisans in rural India, preserving traditional craftsmanship".

The Women Behind Uma

Uma Global President Dr Rita Kakati-Shah and British Women in Sarees Chairperson Dr Dipti Jain highlighted the importance of the saree as a symbol of unity and the empowerment of women worldwide, according to PTI. 

Jain, a geriatrician by profession, shared her passion for sarees and her commitment to raising awareness of this garment on a global scale.

Kakati-Shah, a former medic turned entrepreneur and philanthropist, highlighted Uma’s dedication to empowering underprivileged girls, youth, and women, not only in New York but also in other areas.

“As the vibrant pulse of Times Square beat to the rhythm of the saree walkathon, participants and spectators alike embraced the spirit of unity and collaboration. In a world often divided, events like 'Saree Goes Global' serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in our diversity,” the release said.