Janhavi Gosavi
Wellington, March 23, 2025
Wellington’s Waterfront was painted in vibrant colours on the morning of Sunday 23 February.
More than 120 women, dressed in Sarees, strutted five kilometres for a Saree Walk, organised by Go Vibrant.
The Walk was a fundraising event and proceeds went to Wellington Women’s Refuge, a charity which supports women experiencing domestic violence and hardship.
This was the second iteration of the Go Vibrant Saree Walk. The first Walk was held in 2023 at which funds were raised for the Breast Cancer Foundation.
The participants gathered at Frank Kitts Park where the walk commenced at 11 am.
Curious Wellingtonians, excited about the appearance of these elegant women in Sarees, stopped some of them to find out more. This event symbolised passion, charity and community bonding, and is considered one of a kind in the Capital.
The Walk concluded at Greta Point at 1 pm, where the participants were greeted with hot Chai and Indian snacks partly sponsored by the Wellington-based catering company Swad Kitchen.
Go Vibrant Sarees announced the winner of its ‘Saree With A Story’ competition, where entrants could win a free saree by submitting a story about one of their own beloved Sarees.
A Saree-themed Cake was donated to the event by Shruti Mahajan from Welly Desi Bites, a home-based bakery specialising in eggless cakes, and everyone enjoyed a slice.
(Photo by Ronak’s Photography)
Jyoti Gosavi (a proud Mumbaikar and Credit Controller at an Organisation in Wellington) started Go Vibrant Sarees in 2019 to extend her love for Sarees throughout the Wellington region and allow women to celebrate their cultural attire publicly.
She works directly with artisans across different regions of India to import authentic, traditional tailor-made, hand-painted and hand-loomed Sarees.
“I love introducing New Zealanders to different kinds of Sarees, including Assam Paat (Assam), Baluchari (Benares or Varanasi), Ajrakh (Sindhi), Paithani (Paithan in Maharashtra) and the Chanderi (Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh),” she said.
Ms Gosavi said that her business contributes to the empowerment of women, who are often the backbone of the Saree industry.
She plans to weave a brighter future for the Saree industry!
For more information and to explore her Saree Collection, please contact Jyoti Gosavi on 0210458424. Email: govibrantnz@gmail.com
Janhavi Gosavi is a multimedia Journalist employed in Wellington.
Photography by Ronak’s Photography (@ronaks.photography)
An additional piece from our Reporter Venkat Raman
A Timeless Elegance
The Saree, a quintessential symbol of Indian culture and tradition, is much more than a piece of clothing. It is an embodiment of grace, elegance, and dignity, draping women in a sense of timeless beauty. Its versatility, its ability to adapt to countless styles, and its celebration of femininity make it a cherished attire not only in India but across the world.
What sets the Saree apart from other garments is its unique way of enhancing dignity. When worn, a Saree commands attention and respect, making a statement of refinement and poise. The Saree celebrates individuality; with each fold and pleat, it transforms into an intimate canvas that reflects the wearer’s personality, mood, and cultural identity. Whether it is a formal gathering or a casual outing, the Saree seamlessly bridges tradition and modernity, allowing women to express themselves while staying rooted in heritage.
The beauty of the Saree lies in its adaptability. The fact that it can be draped in over a hundred ways makes it one of the most versatile garments ever created. Each region in India boasts its unique draping style, creating an impressive tapestry of cultural diversity. From the Regal Nivi style, commonly seen in South India, to the striking Bengali Atpoure drape, every method has its story and significance. The Gujarati Seedha Pallu style adds a festive charm, while the Maharashtrian drape is admired for its resemblance to a traditional dhoti, symbolizing strength and empowerment.
Beyond India, Sarees have found their way into global fashion landscapes, with celebrities and designers embracing their elegance. Contemporary trends see Sarees styled with belts, jackets, and crop tops, blending tradition with modern aesthetics. Despite these innovations, the essence of the Saree remains intact; its ability to gracefully drape the human form, accentuating curves and lending an aura of sophistication.
Diversity and Dignity
The fabric and design of Sarees are equally diverse, ranging from the rich Kanjeevaram Silks of Tamil Nadu to the intricate Banarasi brocades of Uttar Pradesh. For those seeking lightweight elegance, the Chanderi Cotton Sarees from Madhya Pradesh and Georgette Sarees offer a perfect balance between style and comfort. Handwoven treasures like the Bandhani, Patola, and Tussar Silk further enrich the Saree’s story, reflecting the artistry of Indian craftsmanship.
The Saree has undergone a revolution in colour, texture and quality, with its price ranging from Rs 500 ($10) to Rs 500,000 ($1015). Some Sarees, specially made for the opulent and for film stars in lavish productions are said to cost more than Rs Five Million ($110,000) each.
Sarees can be of simple cotton material or intricate in design with gold and silver linings, embellished with mirrors, pearls, diamonds and other precious and semi-precious stones.
The Saree length varies from five yards to 9.5 yards tied loosely, folded and pleated or set to special styles. Saree materials are today converted into suits, corporate and evening wear, party dresses, Salwar Kameez and even accessories.
The Saree is not merely an attire, it is an experience. It holds the power to transform not only the appearance but the very demeanour of the wearer. Draping a Saree is an act of celebrating one’s roots, expressing dignity, and embracing the elegance that comes with tradition. Whether worn with intricate jewellery or paired with minimalist accessories, the Saree never fails to captivate, leaving an impression that transcends time and borders.
