This spectacle was not just a celebration of cultural diversity but also a platform to support artisans in rural India, preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Our Bureau
New York City, NY
In the bustling heart of Times Square, New York City, on 4th May, cultural diversity took CenterStage as ‘British Women in Sarees’ partnered with Uma to host the iconic Saree Goes Global event. This celebration, held at Father Duffy Square, Times Square, showcased the timeless elegance of the saree through music, dance, and a vibrant Saree Walkathon. This event was supported by the Consulate General of India in New York, Mr Binaya Srikanta Pradhan.
Building on the success of internationally acclaimed events like the Royal Ascot Ladies’ Day and the historic Saree Walkathon at Trafalgar Square in London, the Saree Goes Global event brought together over 500 participants from at least 9 different saree-wearing countries. This spectacle was not just a celebration of cultural diversity but also a platform to support artisans in rural India, preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Speaking at the pre-event press briefing hosted by the Consul General of India in New York, Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan of the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs expressed his gratitude to Dr Rita Kakati-Shah and Dr Dipti Jain for their dedication and leadership in organizing this magnificent event. He emphasized the significance of the saree in promoting heritage and cultural exchange, echoing the city’s commitment to inclusivity and economic growth, particularly for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses (MWBEs).
Dr Dipti Jain, Chairperson of British Women in Sarees, and Dr Rita Kakati-Shah, President of Uma Global, also highlighted the importance of saree as a symbol of unity and the empowerment of women worldwide.
Dr Jain, a Geriatrician by profession, shared her passion for sarees and commitment to raising awareness of this garment globally. Dr Kakati-Shah, a medic turned entrepreneur and philanthropist, emphasized Uma’s dedication to empowering underprivileged girls, youth, and women, both in New York City and beyond.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Ms Shruti Pandey, Consul (political, press, information and culture) at the Consulate General of India in New York, who shared that the saree transcends borders with its versatility and beauty, not just in India, but across the globe. Dr Jessica Sims who represented the British charity, St. George’s Society of New York, founded in 1770, commented on the importance of the saree to promote cultural diversity, which is aligned to the work the charity does to support students, families and seniors from Commonwealth backgrounds in New York City.
This event was made possible through the support of the Consul General of India in New York, The Mayor’s Office of New York City, Times Square Alliance, NYC Department of Parks, and numerous local cultural and community groups. In an exciting addition to the event, Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan of the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs honored Dr. Rita Kakati-Shah and Dr. Dipti Jain on behalf of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, with a Proclamation for their work, further highlighting the significance of their contributions.
As the vibrant Times Square set abuzz to the rhythm of the Saree Walkathon, participants and spectators alike embraced the spirit of unity and collaboration. In an often divided world, events like Saree Goes Global serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in our diversity.
British Women in Sarees is dedicated to raising awareness of the saree while supporting handloom artisans in India through high-profile events. Uma is a leading organization empowering underprivileged girls, youth, and women through educational and cultural resources, with a global presence headquartered in New York City. Dr Dipti Jain, a passionate saree lover, is Chairperson of British Women in Sarees and works as a Geriatrician in the UK. Dr Rita Kakati-Shah, President of Uma Global, is an entrepreneur and philanthropist dedicated to empowering women globally.
