’Sarees: Draping Emotions’ a coffee-table book by Pearl Academy made in collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) exploring the historical significance of sarees, including references in ancient texts like the Mahabharata, and showcases contemporary design trends was unveiled by Giriraj Singh, Union Minister of Textiles on October 13 in New Delhi.
The coffee table book serves as a tribute to the saree — a timeless garment intricately woven into the fabric of Indian culture. It unravels the intricate stories behind sarees, tracing their journey from traditional attire to symbols of cultural amalgamation, empowerment, and individual expression. Inspired by the powerful narratives surrounding this iconic garment, the book highlights the artisans and designers who innovate, while preserving the saree’s rich heritage.
The release ceremony took place in the presence of Chairman Pearl Academy Dr Sharad Mehra, FDCI Chairman Sunil Sethi, and President Pearl Academy Aditi Srivastava. With a legacy of 31 years, Pearl Academy is India’s leading creative education institution.
“The saree is not just a piece of clothing; it embodies our cultural ethos and the spirit of our artisans,” said minister Giriraj Singh. “This book celebrates the stories that the saree tells, showcasing its role in empowering women and preserving our rich heritage. Initiatives like these are vital for fostering a deeper appreciation of our traditions among the younger generation.”
“The saree, that has been worn by women in the Indian subcontinent for over 5000 years, has evolved from a simple attire to a symbol of fashion, identity, and cultural pride. Its beauty lies in its adaptability and rich heritage. This book is Pearl Academy’s tribute to the saree, a timeless symbol of identity, culture, and women’s strength. This book will take the readers on a journey that weaves together the stories, artistry, and emotions of a saree,” adds Dr Sharad Mehra, Chairman, Pearl Academy.
As Pearl Academy continues to promote art and culture, it plays a vital role in celebrating India’s rich cultural tapestry. This initiative not only revitalises India’s artistic legacy, but also inspires a renewed appreciation for the saree as a cultural symbol.
“The saree is a timeless embodiment of India’s rich textile heritage, a garment that seamlessly weaves tradition with modernity. ‘Sarees: Draping Emotions’ is a celebration of this remarkable legacy, and it honours the artisans and designers whose craftsmanship breathes life into each weave. At FDCI, we are committed to supporting initiatives that preserve and promote the artistry inherent in our cultural fabrics. This book is a vital resource, inspiring new generations to appreciate the saree’s elegance while embracing it as a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and evolving identity in a contemporary world,” says Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI.
The book launch was preceded by ‘First Cut’ a platform showcasing the debut collections of Pearl Academy’s final-year fashion design students, allowing them to display their creative prowess to the global design community.
This year, the theme celebrated the resilience and evolution of women in Indian society. During Navratri — a time when the divine essence of womanhood is revered and respected — the collection acknowledged the power women hold, capturing the multifaceted journey of women in India — from revered goddesses like Kali and Durga to the legendary warrior queen, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi. The collection honoured their strength, spirit, and the vital role they continued to play in shaping the nation’s future.
“Our society has always celebrated strong women, whether through the worship of powerful goddesses or the legacy of trailblazing figures who fought against oppression,” said Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy. “However, as history unfolded, we witnessed a troubling shift — women were mistreated and abused, yet their strength remained unshaken. Through this collection, we aimed to remind the world that women must never be taken for granted. When wronged, they always rose to reclaim their glory, and we, as a society, continued to stand with them.”
The collection highlighted the exceptional work of Pearl Academy’s talented students, drawing inspiration from India’s rich cultural heritage and the evolving narrative of women’s empowerment. The designs were bold and powerful, infused with deep symbolism that resonated with themes of resilience, transformation, and the unwavering quest for justice.
