The Wimbledon-themed sari paid homage to tennis champions who have made an indelible impact on the sports landscape worldwide. The white handloom six-yard fabric featured a green border embroidered with the names of beloved tennis players, from Sania Mirza to Novak Djokovic, painted in gold.
The pallu of the sari showcased a large Wimbledon logo. Across the length of the sari were zardozi-embroidered trophies and miniature tennis rackets, along with hand-painted strawberries, which have been a favorite snack at the tournament for centuries.
Wimbledon’s Instagram page provided a glimpse into the creation of the tennis-themed sari. The video, captioned “Grace meets tradition,” showed a team of artisans interlacing threads to traditionally weave the sari. Another artist was seen hand-painting strawberries before embroidery experts took over.
The artisans then deftly embroidered intricate shimmering beads to decorate the sari with Wimbledon-esque designs. The sari is a masterpiece reflecting the dedication, skill, and artistry of the craftsmen involved. This collaboration highlighted the intersection of traditional Indian craftsmanship and the prestigious world of Wimbledon.
By involving local weavers, painters, and embroiderers in this project, Wimbledon emphasized the importance of promoting traditional arts. The sari resonates with tennis fans and the Indian audience, painting a larger image of the power of collaborations among small-scale artists and global institutions.
The initiative has drawn much-needed attention to the work of traditional artisans and has created a ripple effect that benefits not only the craftsmen but also the larger cultural community. This Wimbledon-themed sari is not just a garment but a symbol of how sports, art, and culture can intersect to create something truly special.