Team India jets off to the Paris Olympics 2024 in new ceremonial outfits created by Tarun Tahiliani

Paris is synonymous with the best and most luxurious fashion (the recently concluded Haute Couture Week is proof), and this year, the French capital will play host to 2024 Summer Olympics from July 26 to August 11. The opening and closing nights of the upcoming Olympics will be no less than a fashion extravaganza with the teams donning beautiful designs steeped in their country’s heritage. Team India’s Olympic ceremonial outfits, this year, will be designed by Tarun Tahiliani and Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd's ready-to-wear label, Tasva. 

Tasva worked closely with the Indian Olympic Association to design outfits that reflect the rich culture of India. At the opening ceremony, Team India’s sportsmen will don a kurta bundi set while the sportswomen will be dressed in matching elegant sarees that reflect our tri-coloured flag. The outfits feature ikat-inspired, digitally printed panels in saffron and green with blue buttonholes on an ivory base to represent peace and unity. These ceremonial outfits have been designed keeping style, tradition, and functionality in mind. While the kurta bundi set was crafted from lightweight moss cotton, the saree features a viscose crepe for a natural drape and maximum comfort. 

As Tarun Tahiliani, chief design officer of Tasva, shared at the Kit Unveiling ceremony, “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.” He added,  “This is our dream—to see our traditions celebrated and honoured around the world.” 

Sharath Kamal, who leads the Olympic Men’s Table Tennis team and the flag bearer of Team India at the Paris Olympics expressed, “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.”

These outfits truly embody the essence and sportsmanship of our country. 

Feature image: Tasva

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