‘Mahatma pioneered sustainable fashion’

Ahmedabad: Growing environmental and ethical concerns have now made the fashion industry look towards sustainable clothing and practices. However, experts at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Gandhinagar, called Mahatma Gandhi the pioneer of sustainable clothing through khadi and the fabric’s most recognizable brand ambassador. Prof Sameer Sood, director, NIFT Gandhinagar, said the institute, over the past couple of years, has worked on several concepts around khadi and sustainability. Apart from collaborations with government and artisan bodies, it has carried out research and design to find new avenues to make the fabric fashionable. Khadi remained an important feature at the institute’s fashion shows organized as part of G20. “Mahatma’s advocacy for khadi, a hand spun and handwoven fabric, went beyond fashion. It aimed to revitalize India's cottage industry, empower rural artisans, and reduce reliance on mass-produced textiles. This aligned with modern sustainable fashion principles, emphasizing ethical production, fair wages, and environmental consciousness,” said Prof Sood, adding that the work at the institute has also focused on Mahatma’s minimalistic approach, sustainable fashion and anti-consumerism. Other institutes including the National Institute of Design have also worked extensively on design and production techniques for khadi. Experts said that looking an India’s climate, while cotton and khadi have stayed in demand as comfortable and eco-friendly fabrics, their sustainability has remained a challenge.

Here, Ganeshotsava focuses on sustainable practices

The Ganeshotsava celebrations in Moodabidri, Karnataka, aimed at promoting sustainability by replacing disposable plates and tumblers with durable steel ones. The event served meals to thousands of people on steel plates and distributed prasad in paper bags. To address littering during the procession, gunny bags were placed along the route for waste collection. Other initiatives included using steel tumblers for serving buttermilk and replacing paper cups with steel tumblers for serving panaka. The public was also encouraged to bring their own cutlery to food stalls. These efforts promote an eco-conscious approach to waste reduction.

UN promotes sustainable growth in tourism industry

The theme for World Tourism Day this year is Tourism and Green Investment, aimed at promoting sustainable growth in the tourism industry. Urvashi Yashroy, a veteran in the hospitality industry, emphasized the importance of "Going Green" and implementing environmentally-friendly practices in the tourism sector. This includes using renewable energy sources such as solar power and wind power, practicing rainwater harvesting, and employing locals. However, there is a challenge in aligning luxury segments with sustainability due to excessive resource consumption. Green investments are crucial for the industry's recovery from the pandemic.

Ranveer Singh shines in satin! Sahil Salathia and other fashion experts give notes on styling the fabric

Actor Ranveer Singh recently made a fashion statement by wearing a satin pantsuit. Satin has been traditionally associated with women's attire, but male celebrities like Harry Styles and Vijay Varma have been experimenting with satin outfits. The trend of men wearing satin is a testament to the evolving landscape of men's fashion. Satin is considered a luxurious fabric that adds elegance to any outfit. It is important to choose the right fit and quality of satin, and avoid wearing velvet or denim with satin.

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