Models at the charity fashion show in Kuala Lumpur organised by World Saree Day Malaysia and Down Syndrome Association of Malaysia.
SAREE, the traditional costume of Indian women, was the highlight of a charity event.
Over 60 sarees made from various materials and featuring different draping styles were showcased in a fashion show which also saw participation of 10 models from Down Syndrome Association of Malaysia (PDSM).
Bharat Club Kuala Lumpur showcased different saree materials and draping styles from 30 states in India as a way to educate people on the garment’s uniqueness.
Organised by World Saree Day Malaysia (WSDM) and PDSM, the event held at Dewan Tun Abdul Razak in Menara Kembar Bank Rakyat, Kuala Lumpur, was supported by the National Arts and Culture Department (JKKN) and the High Commission of India.
The objective was to raise awareness about the saree as well as channel some proceeds to PDSM, said WSDM in a statement.
The event also indirectly gave people with Down Syndrome an opportunity to show their talents and develop their self-esteem.
The event was attended by Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Bommireddy Narasimha Reddy.
Down Syndrome Associaton of Malaysia models with (back row, from left) Paralympic Council of Malaysia president Datuk Seri Megat Shahriman Zaharudin, PDSM president Norhana A. Bakar and Bkay.
Residents from Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak Yatim Mary, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Lagenda and Pertubuhan Kebajikan Lindungan Ikhlas welfare homes were also invited.
PDSM, a non-profit organisation established in 2001, fights for the rights of individuals with Down Syndrome. They hold activities on health, welfare, education, vocational career training and employment.
Meanwhile, WSDM’s mission is to preserve the diverse cultures of the many races in Malaysia and to encourage the public to wear their respective traditional attire to forge unity.
It also aims to cultivate love and respect for Indian culture among the current generation so that it will not be lost.
Event director Bkay Nair said they chose to highlight the cultural heritage of saree as there were many interesting elements to it, including the different varieties.
“It has been recorded that there are 108 ways of wearing a saree, which makes it unique,” said Bkay who is also involved in programmes by Soroptimist International Ampang and World Hijab Day International to help those in need.
A lucky draw at the event offered many prizes including exclusive sarees, accessories, gold coins and a trip to Langkawi.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre staged a Kathak classical dance, in which performers narrate stories through their eyes and facial expressions.
