Our Bureau
New York, NY
Times Square came alive with colour, music, and cultural pride as Saree Goes Global returned to Father Duffy Square for its second consecutive year. Organized by Uma Global in partnership with the Consulate General of India in New York, the event celebrated the elegance of the saree and the empowerment of women through heritage, artistry, and community.
This year’s celebration brought together participants from India, Bangladesh, the United Kingdom, the West Indies, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, multiple cities across the United States, and New Yorkers, transforming Times Square into a vibrant global mosaic.
The event opened with remarks from dignitaries, including Mrs. Pragya Singh, Consul (Head of Chancery) at the Consulate General of India in New York, who highlighted the deep cultural history and diversity of the saree. “The saree is one of the world’s oldest continuously worn garments, with a history spanning thousands of years. Its countless styles, drapes, and fabrics reflect India’s extraordinary diversity and artistic heritage. Saree Goes Global beautifully brings this legacy to life in the center of New York City, reminding us how tradition can unite communities across cultures, generations, and geographies.”
Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner for International Affairs at the NYC Mayor’s Office, added: “Saree Goes Global is more than a cultural celebration — it honors generations of craftsmanship, storytelling, and community. The saree reminds us that when women lead, communities thrive and innovation flourishes. I applaud the team for bringing this celebration to the heart of Times Square. This event truly reflects the spirit of New York City — diverse, dynamic, and driven by opportunity for all.”
A congratulatory letter from Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul applauded Uma Global and Dr. Rita Kakati-Shah and her team for bringing this cultural celebration to Manhattan for a second year, noting the event’s contributions to diversity, empowerment, and community engagement across New York State.
Dr. Jessica Sims, representing the St. George’s Society of New York, one of the oldest charities in the United States, emphasized the importance of cross-cultural initiatives in strengthening community ties across the city.
Draped in a traditional paat silk mekhela chador from the silk-weaving village of Sualkuchi, Assam, Northeast India, Dr. Rita Kakati-Shah, President of Uma Global, and Host Committee member, shared: “Saree Goes Global connects us all, and in doing so, celebrates the voices of women, our youth, and the elegance of the saree. I am so honoured to work alongside my incredible Host Committee sisters, whose dedication and spirit helped bring this celebration to life. Seeing Times Square once again transform into a sea of culture, colour, and confidence is something we should all be very proud of.”
Following the dignitary remarks, Host Committee members performed a beautiful shlok as a traditional welcome. The cultural showcase then began with Himani Joshi leading the vocals for We Are the World. Dancer Rokaya Begum performed Bharata Natyam and Kathak, and dancer Kankana Goswami performed a folk Bihu dance, while vocalist Shimul Khan and dhol artist Prince Murmu brought dynamic energy to the square, culminating in the crowd roaring to the rhythm of Jai Ho.
An anticipated tradition of the program is the saree walkathon led by the vibrant beats of the dhol, which brought attendees together in a lively, symbolic march around Times Square, celebrating unity, confidence, and the joy of cultural expression.
Special appreciation was given to the event’s Host Committee members — Dr. Garima Agrawal (radiologist and Haut Monde Mrs. India Worldwide 2025), Jayeeta Mukherjee (finance executive known for spreading joy), Nira Bahauddin (adult education specialist and theatre/vocal arts enthusiast), Dr. Mitali Chattopadhyay (clinical research scientist and handloom saree lover), Pooja Mugilan (Co-Founder of Saree Era and cultural arts advocate), Dr. Salma Khan (physician-scientist and lifelong saree enthusiast), and Dr. Dipti Jain (geriatrician and Chairperson of British Women in Sarees), for their immense efforts in curating the event.
Their dedication — along with the enthusiasm of participants from around the world — made this year’s Saree Goes Global a powerful celebration of unity, heritage, and women’s empowerment.
About Uma Global
Uma Global is a New York–based philanthropic organization committed to empowering youth and women through education, leadership development, and cross-cultural initiatives. With programs spanning multiple countries, Uma Global fosters confidence, collaboration, and global understanding among emerging leaders and changemakers.
