Yellow. Mustard. White. These are the colours that fashion must revel in, as the weather turns a corner, marking the advent of spring. And Basant Panchami or Saraswati Puja is the true harbinger. In Assam and some other eastern states, Saraswati Puja is a special occasion for many, many young women as it is the day that celebrates their coming of age to drape their mother’s six yards. No mean task that, more so holding it all together and yet walk and run with elegance.
So if you are the tomboy kinds, give the sari a fusion look by cinching it at the waist with a belt and twining around it a string of flowers, either in contrasting or turmeric hues.
You can even give the traditional mekhela-sador an innovative easy-to-wear individual stamp by using any of your crop tops or a flirty shirt by knotting it on any one side of your waist. Wrap the sador the way it is done or thrown at the back and the two ends coiled around the elbows. Add the flower power in long running stitches as tassels.
What about braiding flowers into delicate jewellery too? Think earrings, hairband, neckpiece and even bracelets and anklets! Yellow or white rose buds, sunflower, gerbera and more strung around your left or right ankle.
And all you young men, take a break from the de rigueur jeans and tee or shirt. Go for the pleated, pre-stitched dhoti and kurta. Time to embrace what’s ours. Dare to be different!
26 January is also our Republic Day. Weave in the tricolour hues too to your ensembles.
Happy Saraswati Puja and a blessed Republic Day to all!
