In a first-of-its-kind experience for delegates, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 brought couture, culture and cinema together on its iconic red carpet in Panaji in Goa.
The fashion show, “Handloom Sarees in Motion: 70MM on Runway,” was presented by Shikha’s Kariigarii in collaboration with DC Handlooms, Ministry of Textiles, the Entertainment Society of Goa and NFDC.
Performed twice on Sunday evening, the 15-minute showcase recreated the evolution of Indian cinema through drapes, music and styling.
Set to soundtracks from different eras of Bollywood, the runway presentation unfolded as a moving tribute to nostalgia and the timeless elegance of the saree.
Models walked the red carpet in silhouettes ranging from the fluid drapes of the 1940s to the bold experiments of the 2020s, capturing “legendary moods, muses, and memories” through handloom weaves.
More than 40 sarees from across India were showcased, including Tussar silk from Chhattisgarh, Ikat Pashmina from Jammu & Kashmir, Banarasi Butidar and Mubarakpur Lachcha Buta from Uttar Pradesh, Chanderi from Madhya Pradesh, Venkatagiri from Andhra Pradesh, Gheecha silk from Chhattisgarh and Kuthampully from Kerala.
Several sarees were hand-painted by award-winning artists associated with the brand, incorporating traditional art forms such as Pichwai, Pattachitra, Warli, Pen-Kalamkari, Madhubani, Gonda and Bhil art.
Entertainment Society of Goa Vice-Chairperson Delilah M. Lobo said the initiative added a refreshing dimension to the festival.
“This first-of-its-kind fashion showcase at IFFI is a wonderful initiative that brings a refreshing and engaging dimension to the festival,” she said, adding, “Fashion is always an integral part of cinema and culture, and the event by Shikha’s Kariigarii beautifully reinforces that connection.”
NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum said the showcase reflects IFFI’s commitment to diverse creative expressions.
“Hosting a handloom-led fashion showcase on the main red carpet highlights India’s cultural depth and the powerful intersection of cinema and craftsmanship,” he said, adding, “‘Sarees in Motion’ beautifully captured the essence of India - innovative, rooted, and globally resonant.”
Dr M Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), said the event aimed to foreground India’s weavers before a global audience.
“Rooted in tradition, saree is a fashion statement and a philosophy - a philosophy of artistry, a philosophy of rural livelihood,” she said, adding, “‘Sarees in Motion’ is our tribute to India’s heritage, its timeless elegance, and the spirit of Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi.”
Shikha Ajmera, artist and promoter of Shikha’s Kariigarii, said the platform offers vital support to artisans associated with the brand.
“I am happy that my brand is showcased at such a prestigious event,” she said, adding, “Such platforms provide big support for the artists and artisans working for the brand, as this helps us promote India’s cultural heritage at a global scale.”
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