Priyanka Gandhi’s Parliament debut saree stirs memory of grandmother Indira Gandhi

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra walked into the Lok Sabha on Thursday to take oath as a Member of Parliament, draped in a traditional Kerala Kasavu saree. The white saree with its golden border was more than a fashion statement — it symbolised her connection to Wayanad, the constituency that sent her to the Parliament with a resounding victory.

Holding a copy of the Constitution, Priyanka took oath in a Kasavu saree, a symbol of Kerala’s cultural unity.

Priyanka’s attire evoked memories of her grandmother, Indira Gandhi, who was known for her wardrobe choices that carried symbolic messages. Indira famously championed the Swadeshi movement, often wearing Indian block prints and handloom fabrics to promote the country’s textile heritage.
When asked about her thoughts during the ceremony, Priyanka said, “Yes, I remembered her [Indira Gandhi], and I also remembered my father.”

Priyanka’s family members, including her mother Sonia Gandhi, brother Rahul Gandhi, and her children Raihan and Miraya Vadra, were present to witness her entry into the Parliament.

Priyanka Gandhi secured the seat with a decisive margin of 4,10,931 votes, defeating Sathyan Mokeri of the Communist Party of India. This win reaffirmed Wayanad’s status as a Congress bastion, which Rahul Gandhi had previously represented.

Rahul, who had won both the Wayanad and Raebareli seats in the recent Lok Sabha elections, chose to retain the latter, leaving Wayanad to his sister.

Her debut came alongside by-elections held in 48 assembly seats and two Lok Sabha constituencies across 15 states.