Paris Olympics 2024: Controversy unravels over Team India's outfits by Tasva
Designed by Tarun Tahiliyani, the costumes by Aditya Birla's Tasva have come under heavy criticism for their fit and designs
A big controversy brewed through the weekend over the ceremonial outfits of the Indian contingent at Olympics 2024. The design of the outfit and the choice of fabric were among the things that drew flak from the netizens.
Tasva, a brand by Aditya Birla, who designed the outfits for Team India explained in its blog that functionality was prioritised: "For athletes, comfort and functionality are paramount. The uniform seamlessly blends these elements. We incorporated the traditional craft of Banaras brocade weaving into footwear like sneakers, creating a unique fusion of heritage and practicality. The classic Indian kurta and Aligarhi combination ensures fluidity and unrestricted movement, allowing athletes to move freely and confidently."
The brand also explained its choice of fabric: "The selection of cotton fabric is not just about comfort and breathability – it's a fitting tribute to India's rich textile heritage."
While several people had expressed disappointment over the design of the outfits since its revelation, things blew up after author and columnist Dr Nandita Iyer put a post on the subject on Saturday evening. Calling it a disgrace to the rich weaving culture of India, she questioned the designer Tarun Tahilyani if the work was done by an intern or was it done at the last minute.
Hello Tarun Tahiliani!
— Dr Nandita Iyer (@saffrontrail) July 27, 2024
I have seen better Sarees sold in Mumbai streets for Rs.200 than these ceremonial uniforms you’ve ‘designed’.
Cheap polyester like fabric, Ikat PRINT (!!!), tricolors thrown together with no imagination
Did you outsource it to an intern or come up with it… https://t.co/aVkXGmg80K
Dr Iyer went on to share some beautiful ceremonial outfits from the event, while also listing down the various fabrics that she thought would be a better fit for the outfit. Other users also chimed in with their suggestions and re-imaginations. The most common faults pointed out by people were the dowdy and ill-fitting form of the clothes.
While most people were freely expressing their disapproval towards the designer, some others blamed the babus in the sports ministry who possibly had the final say. Some even brought up how the edge of the sarees and blouses had a logo of the brand interspersed through it, raising ethical questions about what they called ‘surreptitious branding’.
Marketer Harinder Singh Pelia, meanwhile, shared a young designer’s version of the outfits.
In an interaction with NDTV, Tahilyani defended the design by saying it was not made for a couture show. “This is what we Indians wear. The intention was to ensure the tricolor on the uniform is visible even from a distance. We had only three weeks to make 300 outfits, which made a heavily embroidered design improbable,” he said.
