A riot of colours, intricate weaves and regional traditions from across India took over New York's iconic Times Square as women from the Indian diaspora came together to celebrate the timeless saree and the cultural heritage woven into the nine-yard garment.
The third edition of ‘Saree Goes Global’, organised by New York-based philanthropic organisation Uma Global, was held at Times Square on Sunday, bringing together women and girls dressed in an array of sarees, from traditional Assamese weaves and Lucknow's Chikankari to Banarasi silk and Kanjeevarams.
The participants proudly displayed their sarees as they waved the Indian national flag, danced, posed for photographs and exchanged stories about their garments, traditions and heritage.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, in a message read out at the event, described the gathering as a celebration of women who "positively transform our communities" while wearing sarees in a proud celebration of their heritage at Times Square.
Hochul also commended Uma Global for being an "invaluable resource" for women, minorities and business professionals.
"When we empower professionals of all genders and backgrounds to succeed, we help build a future that works for all of us," her message said.
Rajlakshmi Appasaheb Kadam, Consul Trade at the Consulate General of India in New York, said the saree represented a living legacy of Indian art, traditions, culture and the country's weavers.
"From the saree's 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 zero-waste, sustainable choice for the future," she said in her message.
The event also recognised women for their achievements and contributions in their respective fields.
Among those honoured were Shaila Rizvi, interior designer and Creative Director of Bungalow, the New York restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna and restaurateur Jimmy Rizvi. She was recognised for her creative achievements, while Mysha Rizvi, Guest Relations Manager at Bungalow, was honoured for the warmth and hospitality she brings to the restaurant.
For Uma Global president Dr Rita Kakati-Shah, the celebration went beyond clothing and fashion.
"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 together," she said.
Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Chief Business Diversity Officer and Senior Advisor for MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise) Business Opportunities in the New York City Mayor's Office of M/WBEs, also highlighted the city's growing diversity.
He said the event also recognised Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whom he described as the first South Asian mayor, and his vision of ensuring that opportunities in New York remain accessible to people regardless of their background, culture or place of origin.
Organised in partnership with the Consulate General of India in New York, the event combined fashion and cultural performances, with music, dance and a vibrant saree ramp walk.
The programme featured performances by Dance X Studio, live music and flute and dhol performances. One of the biggest attractions was a flash dance that took over Times Square, led by celebrity choreographer Jayshree Srikanth and Dance X Studio dancers, with Saree Goes Global participants and members of the public joining in.
The ramp walk, led by Host Committee member Garima Agrawal, showcased sarees and traditional weaves from different parts of India, highlighting the country's rich regional textiles, drapes and craftsmanship.
The celebrations culminated in the signature Saree Walkathon through the heart of Times Square, with participants, families and supporters coming together in a display of cultural pride and unity.
Dr Dipti Jain, founder of the Saree Goes Global initiative in the UK, said sarees offered a vibrant platform to celebrate "our shared heritage and foster a deep sense of belonging."
For Uma Global, the event forms part of its broader work to empower youth and women through education, leadership development and cross-cultural initiatives.
In the middle of one of New York's busiest and most recognisable public spaces, the saree became more than a traditional garment for a day. They served as a moving expression of identity, community and India's diverse cultural heritage.
(With inputs from PTI)