Saree Goes Global: Celebrating Cultural Diversity In The Heart Of Times Square, New York City

Saturday, in the bustling heart of Times Square, New York City, cultural diversity took center stage 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 nine 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 provided remarks, highlighting the importance of the saree as a symbol of unity and the empowerment of women worldwide.

Dr. Jain, a Geriatrician by profession, shared her passion for sarees and her 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, which was founded in 1770 predating the American Revolution, commented on the importance of the saree to promote cultural diversity, which is aligned to the work St. George’s Society of New York 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 pulse of Times Square beat to the rhythm of the Saree Walkathon, participants and spectators alike embraced the spirit of unity and collaboration. In a world often divided, events like Saree Goes Global serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in our diversity.