Not just sarees: Kangana Ranaut's love letter to Indian textiles

During the promotions of her film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, Kangana Ranaut wore sarees representing varied craft traditions from several states.

Kangana Ranaut once again used the power of fashion to celebrate India. This time, she did so during the press tour of her recently released film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata.

The actor and BJP MP wore an impossible-to-ignore (and inspiring) collection of sarees during the film’s promotions. Each pick celebrated India’s rich craftsmanship, turning the entire press tour into a sartorial journey across the country.

A Kanjeevaram

A regal violet-and-ivory Kanjeevaram by designer Gaurang Shah was her pick to kickstart the promotions. The bright purple border, in striking contrast to the understated ivory expanse, shimmered with intricate zari embroidery featuring temple-inspired motifs. But the saree's appeal did not end there.

Shah, a textile revivalist known for championing traditional weaves and handcrafted textiles, infused the South Indian classic with a touch of Western India. The designer embellished the regal drape with dainty yet vibrant Mochi embroidery motifs.

Mochi embroidery is a traditional craft from the Kutch region of Gujarat, historically practised by the Mochi (cobbler) community. Renowned for its fine chain-stitch work, the embroidery is created using a hooked needle called an aari rather than a conventional sewing needle.

Odisha's Kotpad saree

Next up, she wore a Kotpad saree from Odisha. While the white-and-red drape looked effortlessly elegant, its beauty was only part of the story. What truly makes Kotpad sarees special is the labour-intensive craftsmanship and centuries-old techniques that go into the making.

It is one of India's rare tribal textiles, prized for its natural dyeing process, handwoven craftsmanship, and deep cultural roots. What truly sets Kotpad apart is its distinctive dyeing technique. The yarn is dyed using extracts from the roots and bark of the aal tree, resulting in earthy shades of maroon, rust, brown, black, and deep red. The process is labour-intensive and entirely natural.

Traditionally woven by the Mirgan weaving community in the Kotpad town of Odisha, every Kotpad saree is handwoven and takes weeks to complete. The motifs on these sarees like crabs, fish, birds, and tribal patterns, are not just decorative but cultural lenses.

Long before sustainability became a fashion buzzword, Kotpad sarees championed it with the use of natural dyes, handmade production processes, locally sourced materials, and minimal environmental impact.

The luminous Paithani

Ranaut continued her saree spree in Maharashtra’s Paithani saree - A luminous drape, exclusively woven for her by designer Neeta Lulla’s team in shades of saffron gold and gulnar red. It was adorned with traditional ‘Mor-Phool’ motifs, where graceful peacocks intertwine with flourishing florals.

Paithani is considered among Maharashtra’s most treasured textiles. Crafted from fine silk and metallic zari, these sarees are renowned for their lustrous sheen and heirloom quality. Unlike many sarees where motifs are embroidered or added later, Paithani motifs are woven directly into the fabric by hand. The weaver interlocks different coloured threads to create intricate designs, an elaborate process that can take months.

Regal in Patan Patola drape

And here comes another stunner: a Patan Patola silk saree in a rich red shade. Ranaut wore this saree for her film’s promotions in Jodhpur and looked like royalty herself.

She opted for a handwoven Patan Patola saree, one of Gujarat's most prized textile traditions. It is crafted using the rare double ikat technique. She paired it with a raw silk blouse, hand-embroidered with traditional Patan motifs rendered in beads and pearls.

Her outfit choices are never just a textile trail across India. They are a lesson. At a time when fashion often chases the new, Kangana Ranaut turns to traditions that have endured for centuries. It is a reminder that India's greatest luxury has never been labels or trends, but the artistry of its weavers and craftspeople.

- Ends