Starting their colorful procession at the iconic Trafalgar Square, the Saree Walkathon participants embarked on a captivating march that wound through the heart of the city
A vibrant spectacle unfolded on the streets of central London on Sunday, August 6, as a group of Indian-origin women donned exquisite sarees representing various states of India. The occasion was a grand celebration of National Handloom Day, organized by the British Women in Sarees collective.
Starting their colorful procession at the iconic Trafalgar Square, the Saree Walkathon participants embarked on a captivating march that wound through the heart of the city. Their route meandered through Whitehall, with joyful pauses for singing and dancing, before culminating at the Mahatma Gandhi statue at Parliament Square. The marchers exuberantly chanted patriotic slogans, echoing their deep connection to their homeland.
The event showcased the diversity of India’s handloom heritage, with the women elegantly draped in sarees from regions such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, and Delhi. Over 500 participants proudly exhibited their rich cultural identity, capturing the attention and admiration of tourists and bystanders alike.
As the procession weaved its way through the city streets, the atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and camaraderie. Passers-by were drawn into the festivities, joining the marchers in spirited renditions of national anthems and spirited slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.” The British Women in Sarees group effectively transformed the sidewalks into a dynamic expression of India’s vibrant spirit.
Dr. Hema Santhosh, a coordinator for the Kerala contingent, expressed the group’s mission beyond the parade itself. “Our role as ambassadors of this movement goes beyond this event. We’ve been successful in shining a spotlight on the talented artists and weavers, elevating their wearable art to a global platform. Yet, our ambitions extend further. We aim to identify and support handloom clusters in need across India. We want to raise awareness about the history and artistry of handloom, and this peaceful Saree Walkathon is another step towards realizing that goal.”
The festivities continued beyond the march, as the participants engaged in various cultural expressions, from traditional garba and dandiya dances to infectious Bollywood beats. The event became a true celebration of Indian culture, uniting people from all walks of life in a shared appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication woven into every piece of handloom fabric.
Dr. Dipti Jain, a representative of the British Women in Sarees group, highlighted the group’s mission. “Our organization is a collective of empowered women who take immense pride in showcasing handloom sarees, symbolizing the rich cultural tapestry that is India. As a not-for-profit entity, we strive to raise awareness about our national heritage and the remarkable labor, artistry, and skill that define each of these masterpieces.”
National Handloom Day, observed annually on August 7, serves as a tribute to the dedicated handloom-weaving community of India. The day underscores the significant role of this sector in the country’s socio-economic progress, emphasizing the enduring legacy of India’s handloom tradition.
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