Why Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wearing a kasavu sari for her swearing-in ceremony sets the right tone

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhivadra) 

Traditionally made from unbleached off-white cotton and adorned with a golden border crafted from real zari or gold-dipped threads, Priyanka wearing the kasavu sari sent a powerful message of solidarity with her constituency and respect for their traditions.

Her striking resemblance to Indira Gandhi did not go unnoticed either. Priyanka’s kasavu sari, paired with her poised demeanour, evoked comparisons to the former Prime Minister, who often used traditional attire to create a relatable image.

A nod to Kerala’s cultural pride

The kasavu sari holds the distinction of being the first product from Kerala to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring its authenticity and origin.

Dr Saurabh Kumar, Dean, MIT-WPU’s School of Design, said the kasavu sari originated centuries ago, during a period when the region was a flourishing trade hub. “The term ‘Kasavu’ refers to the gold thread used to weave the sari’s border, which is a hallmark of Kerala’s weaving tradition. Over time, this attire has become an iconic representation of Kerala’s cultural aesthetics,” he explained.

They were once a symbol of aristocracy, professor Surya said, while also carrying the legacy of the Swadeshi movement, encouraging the use of handspun and hand-woven cotton.

Originating primarily from Balaramapuram, Kerala, these saris are handwoven with care, preserving a heritage that spans generations.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Congress (@incindia) 

Tips for buying and styling a kasavu sari

If you wish to buy yourself a kasavu, here are some tips from professor Surya on how to do that:

Buying genuine kasavu:

• Fabric: Opt for unbleached off-white cotton for authenticity.
• Border: Look for intricate gold borders crafted with quality zari.
• GI Tag: Always check for the GI certification to ensure authenticity.

Styling Ideas:

• Casual: Pair a cotton kasavu sari with a simple blouse for an understated look.
• Formal: Choose a silk kasavu sari and complement it with a bold, brightly coloured blouse for an elegant touch.