Our Mission
Welcome to the International Museum of the Saree, a pop-up museum born in the USA and dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage and artistry of the saree, born in India and sibling apparels in the saree family tree across South Asian and diaspora communities globally. Discover our commitment to preserving and celebrating this iconic garment and it's family as they journey the world influencing fashion and demanding archiving and updates in history. Join us as we raise awareness and share the stories woven into every thread, recorded interviews of families and groups globally and promote their presence with saree themed pop up and digital displays.
Do you have an amazing saree or sibling apparel ( lehengha, choli, salwar kameez, dhoti, sherwani dupatta or similar story) to share?
At the International Museum of the Saree, we are dedicated to preserving, showcasing, and celebrating the cultural significance of the saree and sibling apparels, fashion icons of South Asia and the world at large.
The Saree: A Timeless Thread of Culture, and Captain of The Saree Family Tree
The saree is one of the world’s oldest and most enduring garments, with roots stretching back over 5,000 years in the Indian subcontinent. More than just a piece of clothing, it is a six to nine-yard canvas of artistry, draped in countless regional styles that tell stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and identity. Each fold, pleat, and pallu carries meaning—whether woven from delicate silk, crisp cotton, or hand-spun khadi. Sarees are often adorned with intricate embroidery, block prints, beadwork, or gold thread, reflecting the diverse traditions of the regions from which they come.
A Global Symbol of Elegance and Expression
Across history, the saree has adapted to changing times without losing its cultural essence. It graces weddings, festivals and formal events while also being reimagined for contemporary fashion runways. From the shimmering silks of Banaras and Kanchipuram to the airy Jamdani weaves of Bengal, each variety is a testament to skilled artisans and centuries-old weaving traditions. Today, the saree is embraced not only by those of South Asian heritage but also by people worldwide where it's wearers travelled, symbolizing grace, sustainability, and the enduring beauty of handmade art. This pop-up museum invites visitors to experience the saree and her family tree of fashion siblings ( lehenga, salwar kameez, anarkalis, dhotis, sherwanis, dupattas and accesories) as both a cultural treasure and a living tradition—one that continues to weave together stories across generations and geographies.
Explore our unique exhibits and discover how we bring this timeless garment to life through engaging and informative displays utilizing responsibility sourcing.
Attend Our Exhibitions & Guest Performances
Attend creative exhibits featuring a pop up or virtual display from our diverse vintage and cultural collection, each with its unique story and cultural significance. Perfect for an introduction to the world of sarees.
Photo Illustration, 2018 Pop Up Vintage and Cultural display on Museum Mile, Manhattan, NY
Upcoming Exhibitions: Coming Soon!
Experience our professional exhibits that delve deeper into the history, artistry, and social impact of the saree. An enriching experience for saree enthusiasts. Our newest virtual exhibit will be streamed soon on music platforms.
Stay tuned for more details!
Workshops & Events
Join our business-focused events, including workshops and cultural programs as a participant, collaborator or sponsor designed to engage the community and promote the saree and her family tree as a symbol of heritage and innovation.
Let us know what you would like to see in an educational workshop or upcoming exhibition.
Guided Tours
Explore enterprise-level experiences with our exclusive guided tours and personalized programs, tailored to provide an in-depth understanding of the saree and sibling apparels global influence and place holders in communities where these cultural apparels continue to thrive.
About the Museum
The International Museum of the Saree began with a passion to celebrate and preserve the rich tradition of the saree with archiving of travelling vintage and cultural sarees and its siblings globally. As a pop-up museum born in USA with a global focus we bring this vision to life through carefully curated exhibits and engaging programs. Our approach is rooted in archiving and documenting of these apparels, illustrate its cultural appreciation by admirers globally and seek community engagement, ensuring that every visitor experiences the beauty and significance of the saree and share their stories.
Threads of History
At the International Museum of the Saree, we are dedicated to showcasing the artistry, heritage, and cultural significance of this iconic garment. Explore our exhibits and discover the stories woven into every thread.
Enjoy our musical and digital video streaming. Click below for "Sari To The New World" and "See Ah Ram"-A tribute to legends.
Location
Pop Up Business Address ( Satellite Location)
2299 Summer Street,
Stamford, CT 06905
Email: imofthesaree@gmail.com
Tel/whatsapp: 917.993.2557
Contact us to share your saree or sibling apparel stories with us, volunteer or collaborate. We welcome new pop up ideas and recommendations.
Sponsors and donor sare welcomed to join us in this saree centric journey.
"Participating in International Museum of the Saree was an unforgettable experience. The exhibits were beautifully curated and my interview and accompanying gungurus made it to the 2024 display" -
-Preya Patel is a Khatak dance teacher of Vivarta Arts
"The volunteer events by IM of The Saree are fun and engaging. I have been a fan since 2018"
F. Abrahim
"The International Museum of the Saree is a focal journey and much needed in diaspora and global communities. It’s a must-participate experience for anyone who appreciates art, culture, and the beauty of the saree and South Asian apparels, including those in diaspora communities where saree migrated carving out new historical developments."
-Founder, Dr. Persaud