Against the backdrop of giant digital billboards, Broadway theaters, and the bustling movement of New York City, the traditional Indian saree took center stage on Sunday, August 23, as hundreds of women and girls gathered at Father Duffy Square for the third US edition of Saree Goes Global. Organized by the New York-based philanthropic organization Uma Global in partnership with the Consulate General of India in New York, the event showcased an array of regional textiles, including Assamese weaves, Lucknow Chikankari, Banarasi silk, and Kanjeevarams.
Expanding Global Footprint and Origins
Diaspora Journey: Founded in the UK by Dr. Dipti Jain through the British Women in Sarees movement, the initiative later expanded to the United States with the assistance of Uma Global.
Growth of the Gathering: Following its inaugural US edition in 2024—which drew over 500 participants representing at least nine saree-wearing countries—the New York celebration has firmly established itself as a recurring cultural gathering that projects Indian identity into major international spaces.
Celebrating Regional Diversity and Modern Evolution
The event highlighted the vast regional diversity of Indian textiles, demonstrating that there is no single version of the saree. Fabrics, patterns, embroidery, colors, and draping styles reflect distinct regions and communities, a diversity showcased during a ramp walk led by host committee member Garima Agrawal.
Rajlakshmi Appasaheb Kadam, Consul Trade at the Consulate General of India in New York, described the garment as a “living legacy” tracing back to the Indus Valley civilization. She noted that young designers are successfully blending traditional weaves with modern cuts, ensuring the garment remains a proud, zero-waste, and sustainable choice worn across weddings, workplaces, and global events.
More Than a Fashion Show: Community Celebration
Designed as a vibrant community event rather than a traditional fashion show, the afternoon featured live music, flute and dhol performances, and a flash dance led by celebrity choreographer Jayshree Srikanth and Dance X Studio. The celebration concluded with the signature Saree Walkathon.
Notably, men also participated by proudly wearing dhotis. Dr. Rita Kakati-Shah, president of Uma Global, emphasized that the gathering is about confidence, heritage, and community connection. The event also honored professional contributions, recognizing Shaila Rizvi, interior designer and Creative Director of NYC’s Bungalow restaurant, alongside Mysha Rizvi, Guest Relations Manager at Bungalow. Additionally, New York Governor Kathy Hochul shared a congratulatory message celebrating women who positively transform communities while proudly wearing sarees in Times Square.
Bridging Generations for Second-Generation Indian Americans
For many Indian Americans, sarees carry deeply personal memories—from garments worn by mothers at weddings to silk heirlooms kept carefully in cupboards. Second-generation participants embraced the attire on their own terms, styling it with contemporary blouses, alternative draping styles, or Western accessories. Dr. Dipti Jain noted that the initiative serves to celebrate a “shared heritage and foster a deep sense of belonging,” proving that heritage can be joyfully and confidently chosen across generations.
