Diversity of Indian sarees, textile heritage displayed by diaspora women at Times Square

Diverse hues and varieties of Indias sarees inundated the iconic Times Square here as women from the diaspora community proudly showcased the timeless elegance heritage and cultural diversity of the garment at a special eventThe third edition of the Saree Goes Global event was organised by New Yorkbased philanthropic organisation Uma Global at Times Square on Sunday Women and girls flaunted their exquisitely embroidered painted and embellished sarees from traditional Assamese weaves Lucknows Chikankari to Banarasi Silk and splendid Kanjeevarams reflecting the diversity of the nineyard garment from across the length and breadth of IndiaAdorning the vibrant sarees with exquisite embellishments styles and fabrics the women proudly showcased their collection as they waved the national flags danced together took pictures and shared stories about their sarees culture and heritageIn her message that was read out at the event New York State Governor Kathy Hochul said the event was a celebration of the women who positively transform our communities while wearing sarees in proud celebration of your heritage in Times SquareHochul commended Uma Global for being an invaluable resource for women minorities and business professionals Through diversity and inclusion programming corporate consulting and mentorship opportunities Uma helps businesses and individuals create and accomplish their goals When we empower professionals of all genders and backgrounds to succeed we help build a future that works for all of us Hochuls message saidIn her message on the occasion Rajlakshmi Appasaheb Kadam Consul Trade at the Consulate General of India in New York said the saree is a living legacy of Indian art traditions culture and hardworking weavers It is a timeless unstitched drape that honours our heritage empowers local artisans through sustainable handloom traditions and evolves with modern fashion while preserving the rich storytelling of our ancestors across generations Kadam said in her messageFrom the sarees ancient roots dating back to the Indus Valley civilisation to its modern legacy where young designers are mixing old weaves with new modern cuts women wear the saree proudly at weddings work and global events It remains a zerowaste sustainable choice for the future Kadam addedOn the occasion inspiring women were honoured for their achievements and contributions to their respective fields The honourees included Shaila Rizvi interior designer and Creative Director of Bungalow the acclaimed New York restaurant from Michelinstarred chef Vikas Khanna and restaurateur Jimmy Rizvi Shaila Rizvi was honoured for her creative achievements including her role in shaping Bungalows distinctive design Mysha Rizvi Guest Relations Manager and a beloved member of the Bungalow team was recognised for the warmth and hospitality she brings to the celebrated restaurantSeeing Times Square filled with women and girls proudly showcasing the extraordinary diversity of Indias weaves was incredibly special President of Uma Global Dr Rita KakatiShah said It was also wonderful to see the men proudly joining us in their dhotis Saree Goes Global is about much more than what we wear It is about confidence heritage connection and creating a space where cultures and communities can be celebrated togetherIn a message Dilip Chauhan Deputy Chief Business Diversity Officer and Senior Advisor for MWBE Minority and WomenOwned Business Enterprise Business Opportunities New York City Mayors Office of MWBEs said I also want to recognise Mayor Zohran Mamdani the first South Asian mayor whose vision reflects that New Yorks success should not be limited to a few but that opportunity should be accessible to everyone regardless of background culture where they come from Our diverse community plays an important role in strengthening our citys economyThe cultural event showcased the timeless elegance of the saree through music dance and a vibrant saree ramp walk The program featured performances from Dance X Studio live music and the sounds of flute and dhol Among the highlights was a flash dance that took over Times Square led by celebrity choreographer Jayshree Srikanth and Dance X Studio dancers and joined by Saree Goes Global participants and members of the publicThe Ramp Walk led by Host Committee member Garima Agrawal showcased sarees and traditional weaves from across India celebrating the extraordinary diversity of regional textiles drapes and craftsmanshipThe festivities culminated in the signature Saree Walkathon in the heart of Times Square bringing participants families and supporters together in a display of cultural pride and unityDr Dipti Jain founder of the Saree Goes Global initiative in the UK said sarees create a vibrant platform to celebrate our shared heritage and foster a deep sense of belongingUma Global is a New Yorkbased philanthropic organisation empowering youth and women through education leadership development and 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