On March 5, 2025 students from TERI School of Advanced Studies (TERI SAS) participated in Green Strut, a sustainable fashion walk competition organized by Rotaract Delhi at the Institute of Home Economics. Students of TERI SAS Representing Satva—the Sustainable Fashion Club portrayed sustainability, fashion, culture, and women empowerment, earning special recognition for their thoughtful performance.  

Their walk symbolized the strength of Bengali women, showcasing mutual support and resilience. The members of club wore a Kantha-stitched saree paired with an upcycled Bengal Gamcha jacket and draped a traditional Baluchari saree. Their presentation ended with the Dhunuchi dance, a ritual that signifies victory over challenges, reinforcing the theme of empowerment.  

The choice of garments carried a deeper message. Kantha stitch, an age-old embroidery technique, repurposes old textiles, embracing circular fashion. The Bengal Gamcha jacket, upcycled from handwoven cotton towels, highlighted the potential of reusing everyday fabrics. The Baluchari saree, woven with intricate narratives, paid tribute to India’s textile heritage and craftsmanship.  

Not only did it try to portray sustainability through traditional crafts but also, the sarees worn by the participants belonged to their grandmother. This shows how such crafts can be preserved and reused amongst generations thereby giving a boost towards circularity in the fashion industry. 

The fashion industry is among the largest contributors to environmental degradation, making sustainable choices more crucial than ever. Embracing traditional crafts, upcycling, and ethical production can reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and support artisans. A shift towards sustainable fashion is not just about clothing—it is about fostering a mindset that values conscious consumption over fast fashion. Efforts like these remind us that small, mindful choices can shape a greener, more responsible tomorrow. #

Article contributed by Satva Team, TERI SAS, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.