Parsi New Year and The "Gara " Saree

It has been some time since I have blogged. As I reflect on the  reason why I suddenly felt defeatist about the whole endeavor I find myself unable to arrive  at a conclusion. It is very easy to blame external factors when we give up on our passion or our dreams.
Often as I face circumstances which I would like to blame solely on my gender, and the various expectations that are rested solely on the shoulders of women. I find myself stopping that thought in its tracks.
I would like to acknowledge myself as a person. An entity not wrapped in gender identity and the presumptions that come with it, Living in the twentieth century in a metro I believe that we have ample opportunity to get ourselves out of a rut or a square which we think has us tied down.
It often takes a lot of introspection, conditioning is not a easy bond to break. But then, unless you try nothing is possible.
The struggle to survive and circumspect the norms as defined by society is a long one and often fought in confines of your heart and mind. The fight to freedom is an ongoing one but fought nonetheless and surely will be won.

If you ask me why sarees, I would say that they are all that which seems right for us women. The sheer diversity, beauty, grace, strength, perseverance and flexibility of a saree is what represents a woman in the true sense.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

17TH August is Parsi new year. Parsi's all throughout the country will pray for health , wealth and happiness at the same time asking for forgiveness for their sins. Parsi women will deck themselves in their finery. Bringing out their beautifully embroidered sarees. Called " Gara"

The embroidery depicts nature in a a woven form: From Peonies,Lilies, bamboo,Cherry Blossoms and other tress and flowers to beautiful birds, Pagodas and Human figurines. Each motif in this embroidery has a  central message . For example the Chrysanthemums are symbolic of spring and Joyousness.

It takes nearly nine months for an embroider to create a Gara Saree as it requires intricate embellishment on all sides. The Khaka stitch is a fine stitch that requires nimble needlework  and often leads to failing eyesight in the embroiderer, hence this stitch is also known as the forbidden stitch. 

The traditional Gara Saree is a dark hue of black, Red or Navy blue with intricate work using bright colorful Silk Threads.

The first and only Woman Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi can be also seen adorning a red Gara with cream embroidery.

The dark color's are a all time favorite but I love the light color's with sparse intricate embroidery.

The cream with read flower and Leaf motifs is elegant at the same time has a hint of casual

The modernization of an art form ensures its survival over time. This pink delicate Georgette with flower motifs is understated but impressive. Actress Sonam Kapoor is all smiles as she poses in the beauty.

If you are in the mood to go more casual then a simple light colored Saree with a Gara embroidery border will also do the trick. Actress Aishwarya Rai looks graceful in a white Saree with a Pink,Green and Cream flowers and Leaves embroidered on its border.

This white Organza beauty is simply ethereal. Thou the saree is not silk the soul of the Gara saree is intact in its beauty.

Interesting Facts and Comparisons

Parsi  embroidery actually owes its origins in China, as the Chinese are the ones who taught this art form to the Parsi women.

The traditional Gara Sree is a heirloom product and an asset whose value increases every year.

The word  “Gara “ means “saree”  in Gujarati.

A minimalist Gara Saree costs Rs 20,000 with the heavier ones costing Rs 80,000 and above.