Tasva, the men’s Indian wear brand by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd., alongside celebrated designer Tarun Tahiliani, revealed the official ceremonial dress for Team India at the Paris Olympics 2024. The event was graced by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and the President of the Indian Olympic Association, Dr. PT Usha.
According to a Tasva’s press release, the ceremonial attire, meticulously designed by Tarun Tahiliani, draws inspiration from India’s rich cultural heritage and patriotic spirit. Embracing the iconic tricolour palette of saffron, green, and white, the attire aims to represent India’s vibrant and dynamic culture on the global stage.
“We’re incredibly honoured to dress Team India,” said Tarun Tahiliani, Chief Design Officer of Tasva. “We worked closely with the Indian Olympic Association to create attire that tells a story about India. The garments are designed to be visually captivating while also ensuring comfort and practicality. As our athletes make their grand entrance on a barge along the Seine for the opening ceremony, the airy, lightweight attire is perfectly suited for the summer warmth of Paris in July.”
For the opening ceremony, male athletes will don a kurta bundi set, while female athletes will wear an elegant saree featuring ikat-inspired digitally printed panels in saffron and green. The sarees will have blue buttonholes representing the Ashoka Chakra, set against an ivory base symbolizing peace and unity. Both outfits will be paired with modern trainers adorned with traditional Benares brocade, blending tradition with contemporary fashion.
“The kurta bundi set is crafted from lightweight moss cotton, ensuring breathability and comfort,” added Tahiliani. “The saree, a symbol of grace and cultural identity, is reimagined in viscose crepe for a natural drape and breathability, ensuring our athletes feel both elegant and comfortable.”
Sharath Kamal, the Olympic Men’s Table Tennis team leader and flag bearer of Team India at the Paris Olympics, expressed his pride in wearing the ceremonial dress. “Putting on this ceremonial dress was a powerful experience. When I looked at myself in the mirror, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and connection to our heritage. The lightweight fabric just makes it ideal for the occasion.”
Ashish Mukul, Brand Head of Tasva, echoed this sentiment: “The official ceremonial dress not only captures the essence of Indian style, it stands as a symbol of national pride and achievement, crafted specifically for those who have earned the honour of representing India on the global stage.”
Tasva’s ceremonial dress for Team India not only celebrates the country’s rich cultural heritage but also showcases its modern, dynamic spirit to the world. As the athletes step onto the global stage, they do so in attire that is a true reflection of the essence of India — timeless, vibrant, and ever-evolving.
This partnership between Tasva and the Indian Olympic Association marks a significant milestone, bringing Indian traditional wear to one of the most prestigious global events, the Paris Olympics 2024.