Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko Kishida arrive at the gala dinner at Bharat Mandapam. (ANI/X)
Known for its exquisite fabrics and commitment to sustainability, the Indian textile industry embodies the core principles of slow and environmentally conscious fashion and is steadily growing as a formidable global soft power.
Celebrated for its rich traditions, India wields its cultural treasures with masterful finesse, shaping global perception for centuries. Among these treasures, the timeless allure of saris stands as an iconic embodiment of India’s profound cultural influence; symbol of India’s enduring soft power. “From the first woman Prime Minister, Smt. Indira Gandhi, draped in printed cotton, khadis, temple border weaves, Ikats and beautiful handicraft saris from Kashmir, to the current President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, who proudly displays her public wardrobe of silk saris from Mysore, Sambalpuri Ikats, Gopalpur Tussars and handloom Santhali iterations sourced from Odisha, the influence of Indian fabrics within the political landscape has consistently been a symbol of cultural identity, inclusivity and power . Steeped in tradition, Indian handlooms, which reflect our collective history, folklore and aspirations, have played a vital role in the field of diplomacy for centuries,” said Anindita Sardar, Head of Design and Curation, Taneira. Amid the grandeur of the G20 summit, the six yards, in all its myriad forms, stood as a testament to the nation’s enduring legacy and rich weaving traditions.
The timeless allure of Chanderi Sarees, draped by Ms. Ritu Banga and Ms. Akshata Murthy, and the stunning Chanderi Sik Saree, adorned by the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Kobita, epitomize the richness and elegance of Indian textiles. “From the beautiful gold Kanjeevaram adorned by Mrs. Bharti Singh, wife of former Chief of Army Staff General VK Singh, to the beautiful Ikat sari embraced by Anupriya Patel, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, each sari represented the kaleidoscope of threads of the country’s textile traditions. Yuko Kishida, wife of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, wore the exquisite Banarasi sari not just as a fashion statement but as a heartfelt embrace of India’s legendary textile heritage,” Sardar added.
Known for its exquisite fabrics and commitment to sustainability, the Indian textile industry embodies the core principles of slow and environmentally conscious fashion and is steadily growing as a formidable global soft power. “The adoption of Indian traditions by world leaders at the G20 Summit not only showcases the elegance of India’s textile heritage but also celebrates their own identity while sending a strong message of respect for India’s diverse culture, which resonates globally and promotes connections that transcend borders. Witnessing the silent eloquence of Indian fabrics, every sari became a story, every motif a testimony and every textile an emissary. Soft power, as expressed in culture and textiles, is not just about influence; it is about the art of influence – a masterpiece woven from the threads of heritage, diplomacy and values,” opines Sardar. Whether at the G20 Summit or on the international stage, they serve as ambassadors of India’s limitless creative potential and leave a lasting impact.
