Our treasured saree is the oldest piece of unstitched garment dating back to Indus Valley Civilisation. It is the cultural icon of the Indian sub-continent. For us it not just a way of life, but a medium of expression, though we may come different regions and drape it in different styles. This six-yard beauty also called a ‘Poshak’ or garment has three segments to it – Antariya, Uttariya and Stanapatt. The saree has continued to rule our wardrobes like no other garment has, this proving its versatility! It has soared global heights in leading fashion shows, Indo-Western ramp walks etc. This wonderful garment has often replaced a blanket, a hammock, a climbing rope, a kitchen towel, and a tissue for a runny nose. One can picturize a real “Mom” in action in her saree.
With the saree as the base, I had the urge to create belongingness in the Community promoting art and culture through a virtual platform and made use of the social media to nurture this desire. This also helped maintain virtual ties with my homeland without leaving the lounge. My mom who is a saree lover and has been the inspiration behind ‘The Saree Gallery’. She has always draped a minimum of three sarees a day – a saree at home, a casual saree for a market round and a third one to go to the Temple in the evenings for her chanting. It was not until 2018, that I questioned her as to who appreciates her sarees. The answer was a bunch of friends and the ladies in the neighbourhood. I was influenced by the various Saree Groups and decided to start a similar one for my friends and myself. After a chat with my sister, I created a global Facebook group and called it ‘The Saree Gallery’. Thus began my journey which I knew needed dedication and commitment. Today, Saree Gallery, that started as a small interactive group has 9000 global members and provides a platform for ladies to showcase their sarees and their talents.
In June 2020, pre-COVID, a few members from the group approached me to do something different for the group. This was the start of the ‘Wholesome Wednesday” sessions which helped promote art and culture. The sessions are a great platform for showcasing the talent within the Group to the Group and slowly picked up momentum. I have successfully completed 100 Sessions without repeating a session or a presenter. It was feel good and satisfying moment, showcasing sarees and promoting community belonging. My love for sarees prompted me to become a member of the Saree Club. I have had several Saree Club members participate in my Wholesome Wednesday sessions and value to them. And in all this, the love for the sarees is the common thread.
