'Draped in saree, we felt like brides'

Dubai - Women from Kenya, Uganda, Singapore, Lebanon and Philippines participate in event organised to mark Hindu festival

Women from different nationalities gathered at a hotel in Dubai on Saturday to experience the richness of the Indian culture during a Hindu festival.
The festive event was organised by Dubai resident Olivia Fernandes, an Indian Catholic, on the occasion of Ganesh Puja at a hotel in Jumeirah Beach Residence.
With an attempt of promoting Indian culture, Olivia had invited women from Kenya, Uganda, Singapore, Lebanon and Philippines to participate in the event by draping saree, India's ethnic attire.
In her new look, Barbara Amore from Uganda, was seen jumping with joy all over the place.
She said: "I look like a bride. I tried something like this for the first time in my life and I must compliment myself, I really look good in this. I loved the ornaments also and the traditional lunch here."
The beautiful saree, jewelry and jasmine flowers adorned by the women have added colour to the lovely celebration. It started with the ceremonial rituals, distribution of sweets and traditional Indian lunch. But, the main attraction of the event remained the colourful Indian wear.
"I loved the concept and feel so special to be a part of this wonderful festival. I think it is the best way to gain knowledge about other cultures" said Victoria Lou, from Philippines.
"Any women can fall in love with one of the most loved Indian outfit saree, a drape of 6 to 9 yards. It is a graceful Indian outfit and it showcases our rich culture. The idea is to make people aware of our traditions and I thought of this concept of dressing them in nav-vari paithani sarees, a famous style from Maharashtra.
"Not only sarees but if you look at their make-up and styling, it is totally Indian and best part is, they all are enjoying it. I am also thinking of organising something similar for the upcoming Onam," Olivia added.
ankita@khaleejtimes.com
 

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