The Sari ninja

Ahead of International Sari Day (December 21), celebrated drape artist Dolly Jain encourages you to wear that sari, spin around in it and feel fabulous

- Rachna Virdi

Dolly Jain, a celebrated drape artist, is known for her exceptional skills in draping traditional Indian attire – the sari. She has mastered 325 diverse draping styles, and earned the title of the world record holder for the fastest sari drape in 18.5 seconds. Her expertise and knowledge about the art of sari draping and understanding of the Indian body type has culminated in her own fashion brand 'I Am' which has garnered immense love and support world over.

Dolly is the favourite of a plethora of Indian brides. Her portfolio entails draping iconic wedding looks of Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, Isha Ambani and has draped saris for other stars like Kiara Advani, Katrina Kaif, Natasha Poonawala, and international model Gigi Hadid. Dolly has represented India on the global stage at high-profile events like the MET Gala and Cannes.

Excerpts from the interview:

Can you share your love for saris?

At one time, sari seemed like a complicated garment to me and was not my style. But life has a way of leading you to places you never expected to go. With time, I began to see them in a whole new light — as a masterpiece that tells a story. Slowly, my disdain turned into admiration, and then into an unbreakable bond. I fell in love with the sari, its elegance, grace, and the way it makes every woman look timelessly beautiful. What started as a hobby of draping saris turned into a passion, and then into a career.

Being an Indian, I feel proud to champion this incredible garment that symbolises our heritage, and am honoured to share its beauty with the world.

At what age did you turn your hobby into a profession?