“The saree is not just a piece of clothing; “it embodies our cultural spirit and the spirit of our artisans,” he said. Honorable Sh. Giriraj Singh. “This book celebrates the stories the sari tells, showing its role in empowering women and preserving our rich heritage. “Initiatives like these are vital to fostering a deeper appreciation of our traditions among the younger generation.”
Giriraj Singh, Minister of Textiles of India, launched 'Sarees: Draping Emotions', a coffee table book written by Pearl Academy and FDCI, on October 13. The book celebrates the cultural heritage and modern evolution of the sari. The event also featured 'First Cut', a showcase of Pearl Academy students' fashion collections, highlighting women's resilience and empowerment through bold and symbolic designs.
The coffee table book serves as a tribute to the sari, a timeless garment intricately woven into the fabric of Indian culture. Unravel the intricate stories behind saris, tracing their journey from traditional clothing to symbols of cultural fusion, empowerment and individual expression. Inspired by the powerful narratives surrounding this iconic garment, the book highlights the artisans and designers who innovate, while preserving the rich heritage of the sari.
'Sarees: Draping Emotions' explores the historical significance of sarees, including references in ancient texts such as the Mahabharata, and showcases contemporary design trends. By integrating AI-generated images, the book reflects Pearl Academy's commitment to the future, while honoring traditional craftsmanship.
“The sari, worn by women on the Indian subcontinent for more than 5,000 years, has evolved from a simple outfit to a symbol of fashion, identity and cultural pride. Its beauty lies in its adaptability and rich heritage. This book is Pearl Academy's tribute to the sari, a timeless symbol of women's identity, culture, and strength. “This book will take readers on a journey that intertwines the stories, art and emotions of a saree,” he adds. Dr. Sharad Mehra, President, Pearl Academy.
As Pearl Academy continues to promote arts and culture, it plays a vital role in celebrating India's rich cultural tapestry. This initiative not only revitalizes India's artistic legacy but also inspires a renewed appreciation for the sari as a cultural symbol.
“The sari is a timeless embodiment of India's rich textile heritage, a garment that seamlessly intertwines tradition with modernity. 'Sarees: Draping Emotions' is a celebration of this extraordinary legacy and pays tribute to the artisans and designers whose craftsmanship brings each fabric to life. At FDCI, we are committed to supporting initiatives that preserve and promote the artistry inherent in our cultural fabrics. “This book is a vital resource that inspires new generations to appreciate the elegance of the sari while embracing it as a symbol of empowerment, resilience and evolving identity in a contemporary world,” he says. Mr. Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI.
The who's who of the industry present at the event included Rina Dhaka, Anju Modi, Tanira Sethi, Nitin Bal Chauhan, Gautam Gupta, Shruti Sancheti, Ragini Ahuja, Mani Shankar, Sushant Abrol, Swati Kapoor, Akshat Bansal, Pratima Pandey and Aseem. Kapoor, among others.
The book launch was preceded by 'First Cut', a platform showcasing the debut collections of Pearl Academy's final year fashion design students, allowing them to showcase their creative prowess to the global design community.
This year, the theme celebrated the resilience and evolution of women in Indian society. During Navratri, a time when the divine essence of femininity is revered and respected, the collection recognized the power that women hold, capturing the multifaceted journey of women in India, from revered goddesses like Kali and Durga to the legendary warrior queen, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi. . The collection honored their strength, spirit, and the vital role they continued to play in shaping the nation's future.
“Our society has always celebrated strong women, whether through the worship of powerful goddesses or the legacy of pioneering figures who fought against oppression,” she said. Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy. “However, as the story unfolded, we witnessed a disturbing change: the women were mistreated and abused, but their strength remained unwavering. Through this collection, we aimed to remind the world that women should never be taken for granted. When they were wronged, they always rose up to claim their glory, and we, as a society, continue to support them.”
The collection highlighted the exceptional work of Pearl Academy's talented students, drawing inspiration from India's rich cultural heritage and the evolving narrative of women's empowerment. The designs were bold and powerful, filled with deep symbolism that resonated with themes of resilience, transformation and the unwavering pursuit of justice.
Note: The content of this press release has not been edited by Fibre2Fashion staff.
Fiber2Fashion News Desk (RM)
