Piyush Goyal Inaugurates ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ in Mumbai; Sonali Bendre Attends

Mumbai: Union Minister of Textiles, Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ in Mumbai, with Bollywood actor Sonali Bendre in attendance.

Goyal emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “The diversity of our country could be seen today during this Walkathon. A large number of women are enthusiastically participating in this Walkathon.”

‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ Celebrates Unity in Diversity

The initiative, as per an official release from The Ministry of Textiles, aims to promote India’s handloom sari culture by inviting women nationwide to showcase their unique ways of wearing saris, presenting India as a nation of “Unity in Diversity.”

“It will also promote the spirit of traditional textiles & support the idea of ‘Vocal for Local,’ and will raise awareness about fitness among women and encourage them to lead healthier lives,” the release added.

Uniting Economic, Cultural, and Regional Aspects, the Event Aims for Significant Impact

Minister of State for Textiles, Darshana Jardosh, highlighted the comprehensive impact of the ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon,’ saying, “By combining the economic, cultural, and regional elements, the event is poised to make a meaningful impact, celebrating the unity in diversity that characterizes India while simultaneously promoting the enduring legacy of handloom craftsmanship.”

The event anticipates participation from over 5000 women, including professionals, Bollywood and television personalities, sports figures, businesswomen, designers, influencers, housewives, and women from the music industry, all adorned in their distinctive traditional attire.

MP Poonam Mahajan Stresses the Symbolic Significance of the Sari

Member of Parliament, Poonam Mahajan, emphasized the symbolic significance of the sari, stating, “The ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ aims to bring women on a platform that supports the Indian textile industry and promotes women’s empowerment. Regardless of whether it’s the CEO of a multinational company or a Koli woman from the indigenous Maharashtrian tribe, each participant will walk the marathon adorned in a traditional sari. This unification through the dignity of labor and a shared love for Indian culture will be the common thread among all participants.”

Previously organized in Surat, the ‘One Bharat Sari Walkathon’ continues its journey to celebrate and promote India’s rich sartorial heritage.