On Sunday, the area near Olcott Memorial Higher Secondary School buzzed with excitement as the Sari Marathon commenced, an initiative designed to promote awareness about menstrual hygiene, organized by The French Door. The event saw a vibrant turnout of women and students keenly participating in a unique marathon dedicated to showcasing traditional attire.
Women congregated in large groups, donned in an array of colorful saris, each illustrating diverse weaves and draping styles. As photographers captured moments and participants shared sari stories, the atmosphere was one of festive camaraderie. Rashmi Chanjachanda, sporting a Coorg-style drape, expressed her enthusiasm to run the marathon in her sari, a reflection of the novelty and challenge the event posed.
Among the participants was Poornima Jha, experienced in long-distance runs, eager to explore running in a sari. Friends like Kamala Kalyanakrishnan chose practical drapes, like the dhoti style for her soft cotton sari to ensure comfort. Niharika Vennala, a yoga teacher, remarked on the practicality of working out in a sari if one is accustomed to it, a sentiment echoed by many present.
Preparing for the race saw innovative hacks; Neha Mahida and her friends secured their saris with pins and belts, aiming for stability through the course. Others, like Sundarambal Sairamesh, opted for different drapes to accommodate the race distance; her choice of a South Indian short sari drape proved apt for the three-kilometer run.
The start of the marathon painted Besant Avenue with a colorful sea of women in caps and saris, some briskly walking while others jogged or ran. Professional runner Dr. Karpagambal Sairam was among the first to complete the marathon, highlighting the event’s significance in breaking stereotypes associated with women’s fitness and attire. She lauded examples like Usha Soman, who runs effortlessly in a sari, promoting the idea that women can exercise and stay fit wearing attire they are comfortable in.
The Sari Marathon was not just a race; it was a celebration of culture, fitness, and empowerment, merging traditional attire with modern health awareness in an engaging, lively event.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/chennai-in-a-sea-of-drapes-weaves-and-colours-women-come-together-for-a-sari-marathon/article68514999.ece
Category : Life & Style
Tags:
