As a part of the Saarc cultural festival, the ministry of external affairs and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) have commissioned the country’s apex fashion organization to put up the fashion event, scheduled Dec 7 in the national capital. “We have joined hands with the Fashion Design Council of India to organise a Saarc Fashion Festival that will showcase the rich textile traditions of the Saarc countries. This will boost our region’s textiles and crafts industries,” External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said in a press statement. “We are delighted to organise the Saarc fashion show, which provides a platform for the designers of South Asian countries to work together, thus promoting the spirit of friendship and mutual-understanding. This event will truly reflect unity in creativity amongst Saarc nations,” added Rathi Vinay Jha, director general of the FDCI.

Aiming to generate awareness about the rich cultural heritage of the Saarc nations through textile traditions, indigenous handicrafts and embroidery techniques, the show titled Threads of Unity will witness 14 designers from eight nations setting the ramp ablaze with their creations. Renowned fashion designers Ritu Kumar and Anamika Khanna will represent India at the event.

In addition to the fashion show, the extravaganza would also offer other cultural events like Saarc Food Festival, Saarc Bands Festival, Saarc Folklore Festival, exhibition on the ‘Textiles Traditions of South Asia’, Saarc Sales Outlet and Saarc Car Rally Photo Exhibition.