Sarees are undoubtedly one of the most elegant and stylish traditional Indian attire that can be worn for any occasion. And that’s precisely why classic and fusion drapes find a place in every woman’s wardrobe. Speaking of which, actor Kamna Pathak, aka Rajesh Singh from the immensely popular &TV’s gharelu comedy Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, is obsessed with the nine yards and has a huge collection of all types of sarees. The actor enjoys wearing them during the shoot and can be spotted in a saree when not shooting. Her love for sarees goes beyond daily wear, with her collection comprising all traditional and fusion sarees from different parts of the county. Shopping for a saree is a must-do on her domestic travel list!
Talking about her love for the nine yards, Kamna Pathak, essaying Rajesh’s character in &TV’s Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, says, “Rightly said that a saree can never go out of fashion and is a must-have clothing in one’s wardrobe. It is one attire that makes every woman look elegant and attractive, regardless of size or shape. Whether get-togethers, parties, formal events, or traditional ceremonies, a saree can be the best choice to make a style statement. It is one attire that has never become obsolete and has only evolved with time. Sarees have always been one of my favourite garments and first love! I fell in love with them at a very young age. My mom used to drape a dupatta as a saree, and I would keep admiring myself in the mirror all day long (laughs). My family made good fun of me back then. My love for the nine yards grew as I grew up, and I started wearing sarees more often. And when I started earning, I started collecting sarees. Soon enough, as I began travelling, I started collecting authentic traditional drapes popular in the cities I was visiting. Over time, I have collected different types of sarees and have created a separate space to store them. Recently, I visited Gwalior for Navratri and then Varanasi for Dev Deepawali. Apart from visiting various ghats, witnessing Dev Deepavali celebrations and gorging on local street food, shopping for a saree was one of my top priorities. So I picked up not one but 5 Banarasi sarees! Collecting sarees from various cities has become a ritual now. If I don’t get to do that, I feel my trip is incomplete (laughs).”
Elaborating on her favourite celebrities in sarees, Kamna shares, “Rekha Ji is hands-down India’s style icon for sarees. Her sheer individualism and elegance in her style statement always attract attention whenever she makes an appearance. She has an impeccable sense of style that continues to inspire generation after generation. Interestingly, I recently picked up one red saree inspired by Rekha Ji’s Kanjeevaram in Varanasi. The shopkeeper told me that many shoppers came asking for Rekha Ji’s various saree looks and many women eyed the red saree I bought, but I was destined to buy it! My other favourite saree-style icon is Vidya Balan, who has a distinct fashion sense, both conventional and off-beat. I must add that I also adore my character, Rajjo’s saree look in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan. Her wardrobe has sarees in vibrant hues with traditional work. While some may complain that daily saree wear can be daunting, especially on the shoot. But for me, it is therapeutic!”
Watch Kamna Pathak as Rajesh in &TV’s Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, airing every Monday to Friday at 10:00 pm!
