The 100SareePact has been a journey at several levels –

A journey of learning:
As a garment of Indian clothing, the saree is traced back to the Indus Valley civilization, which flourished during 2800-1800 BC. From the days when stitching had not been discovered/invented and un-stitched garments were in use in various civilizations, probably, this 6-yards of fabric is one of the few that has survived the onslaught of cultures, changing attires, industrialization and the passage of time. It has re-invented itself time and again, continues to inspire the creative imagination of people even today and remains current and relevant.

A journey of pride and inspiration:
It is a matter of great pride to all those who wear sarees and also those who love and admire them, that a garment that was used thousands of years ago is still in vogue. It is also wonderful to note that women who have achieved tremendous professional success in current times, prefer it as their work attire. Chanda Kochar, Arundhati Bhattacharya, Vidya Balan, and many others like them are an inspiration.

A journey of discovery:
I learnt many things from others’ postings on the pact…the different types of sarees, issues related to saree-making and the various handlooms that India can boast of…different styles of draping…accessories that enhance the look of the saree, and so much more!

And last but not the least…

An emotional journey:
The saree-pact year (and half:-) has been a wonderful period of romancing my sarees and writing about them. I re-lived the thoughts and feelings associated with each saree as I recalled the many joyous occasions for which I had received or bought these sarees. I discussed sarees with my mother who shared stories about her mother, who would buy sarees by weight, of the times when the jari was made of silver and could be sold back after the saree was old and frayed, and so many other anecdotes.

My heartfelt thanks to Anju Maudgal Kadam and Ally Mathan!

Truly – Saree jahan se achchaa!!