Journalism of Courage
As the saying goes,changes are inevitable,and now what has changed is the definition of contemporary. While earlier modern was what was not traditional,but a change in mindset of the new-generation,it seems tradition will finally have its due importance in the era of globalisation. Playing its own part in the transition,city is also witnessing a change that is bringing back the glory of old times in a new way.
Sharvey Dhongde,co-convener,INTACH,an NGO that works for conservation of heritage,says,When we tried to present the identity of Punethe attirein a new light,apprehension was sure to come,but what made us move ahead is the acceptance of the same by the youngsters. Acceptance of Khadi in fashion circle is another motivating factor. Traditional fashion is o be seen as craft and not just a trend. A craft never goes out to fashion,as it has a value attached to it,which is timeless
Anjali and Vijay Paranjype have a memorable example of youth falling for traditional attire. My daughter-in-law,who is a Spanish national,preferred to wear a nauvari during her marriage ceremony. And her friends from Spain also sported the saree and said that they felt great wearing a traditional outfit that was so comfortable and gorgeous.
To which,Vijay Paranjype,adds,Wearing traditional clothes is not only about being fashionable,it also reflects how attached you are to your roots. But clothes should not be a misfit and should be according to the occasion to a lot of experimentation is being done with the traditional clothes itself. Wearing traditional clothes should be looked upon as a style that speaks about the person,occasion and the place as well.
Among the traditional outfits that have been on the list of the fashion-conscious are – nauvari,nath and Puneri pheta. Apart from the fact that the mentioned outfits are being sported by the people on various occasion,a lot of them have also taken to mix and match it with other regular wear or western wear.
Laxmi Deshpande,graphic designer,feels its cool to wear nauvari saree during festivals and wedding ceremony. I find is apt to be worn on occasions like wedding or diwali. Apart from reflecting the culture,it also sets a mood and makes you stand apart among all the lehnga and suit clad friends.
Girish Murudkar,of Murudkar Zendewale says,We have actually seen the evolution of the Puneri pheta from its origins,that is,the Peshwai pheta and have seen its transition down the ages. People might say that the Puneri culture is fast dwindling but it is interesting to note that it was the younger generation that came up with the idea of presenting the pheta at various cultural festivals in the city or to important dignitaries who visit the city as a mark of respect and showcase of our tradition. While as far as India is concerned the pheta does find use during cultural events but abroad Indians and even Maharashtrians make it a point to wear the pheta as a mark of our tradition and even encourage foreigners to don the gear.
