Today, Sambalpuri saree is the epitome of
elegance and power. These sarees were the staple outfit for the locals and used
to be the livelihood of many villages near Sambalpur. But something happened.
It started towards the end of the decade of 70s of the last century when former
Prime Minister Late Mrs. Indira Gandhi started making public appearances in integral
this variety of sarees. Today, it is a premium party wear for the political
women leaders but it was Mrs. Indira Gandhi who gave it such a prominent
position in the cupboard of important women of politics.
Sambalpuri sarees, due to their texture and
elegant designs have become synonymous with the wardrobe of women politicians.
It is almost like a dress code for them. Just think of a light colored
Sambalpuri saree with contrasting border, and you will visualize Mrs Gandhi
coming out of the Parliament. The tradition is still on. Though the silk Sambalpuri sarees are indeed premium party wear, you will find the cotton
varieties in different combinations and designs draped around important women
like Sushma Swaraj, Ambika Soni, Sheila Dixit and of course Sonia Gandhi. Even
Mamata Banerjee who is known for her simplistic attire can be spotted in modest
Sambalpuri sarees when attending important events.
Elegant designs of Sambalpuri Sarees Online |
There is definitely no thumb rule set for
these women politicians to choose Sambalpuri sarees as their political
manifesto of dressing but by some unwritten law, these sarees have become an
integral part of their wardrobe- from premium party wear to modest public
appearances. You will also find most of the Doordarshan anchors or newsreaders
sporting these sarees. These sarees are so elegant and sophisticated that when
draped elegantly it presents a very pleasant and professional image- exactly
what is expected from a political leader.
A political leader has to travel a lot. Hard
work, long journeys, walks, public speeches, meetings etc are integral part of
their everyday lives. As national clothing, they are expected to wear sarees in
these events and personally they want one which is comfortable to carry, should
not be bling and does not get creased even after a hectic day. The Sambalpuri
sarees just fit the bill most aptly. The fabric is cotton or silk, thread work
is used for adornment, no sequins or other shining materials are used. A cotton
Sambalpuri saree can be their premium party wear and at the same time it can
make them one with the ordinary people too. As political figures, we just
cannot imagine them in a sequined designer saree with heavy zardousi work. And
the Sambalpuri saree is perfect for their image.
There is a glow of luster in these sarees.
The most commonly used motifs here are shells, fish, wheel, and flower. The
borders in contrasting colors and heavily worked pallu are the trademark
designs of Sambalpuri sarees. Due to their simplistic and traditional approach
and look, it is a hot favorite of women politicians in India and have earned
their position as premium party wear. It has a very earthly look and thus calls
for even more minimalistic accessories to team it up. Jewelries made of
terracotta, silver, oxidized metal or flowers go best with such a saree. For a
more traditional occasion like wedding, it can be paired with light gold
jewelries as well. Flat flip-flops to high heels- you can choose footwear
according to the occasion. Women politicians on a rural trip or rally prefer
platforms or low heel sandals but can wear the same saree with a high heel when
attending a formal party. It is due to this versatility, Sambalpuri sarees have
continued to be a favorite part of the wardrobe of political women leaders in
India- both as a premium party wear and a regular outfit.
No comments:
Post a Comment