MELBOURNE, 2 June 2025: A saree (or sari) is a traditional Indian or Indian sub-continent garment with deep roots in culture worn by women, consisting of an unstitched drape. Normally it is 5.5 to 6 meters. It is elegantly wrapped around the body, paired with a fitted blouse (choli) and a petticoat. The saree is said to be one of the world’s oldest and most versatile forms of clothing, known for its grace, cultural significance, and regional variations.
Naturally, women who have migrated here still adore the Saree. The type of Sarees are many including Banarasi, Kanjeevaram, Chanderi, and Patola. They could be made on handlooms or in textile factories. Some Indian women in July 2024 formed the Melbourne Saree Club (MSC) aimed to promote awareness (with meaning) of the ‘Saree’ within the current and the next generation in Australia (not limited to South Asian diaspora). They are determined to preserve and push ‘Saree’ power in the era of Western outfits.
Within MSC, the aim, says the MSC organising team, to listen to ‘Saree’ stories from previous generations and seek inspiration to wear and travel, go to dinners and lunches and even Australian workplaces.
MSC has successfully organised two events so far: International Women’s Day in March and Mother’s Day Brunch in May. These vents witnessed a network of South Asian women over their love for sarees along with guest speakers sharing their wisdom on wellness, financial planning and running three successful restaurants in Victoria.
At MSC, “we believe in paying it forward to the community. Hence, one of our long-term goals is to be able to help our weavers (traditional Saree makers) back in India/South Asia during their times of need, says the MSC organising team.
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