Chennai – The renowned Carnatic music duo, the Chinmaya Sisters, Uma and Radhika, not only captivate audiences with their soulful melodies but also make a distinct mark with their tasteful fashion choices during the Margazhi season. In a recent interview, the sisters shared insights into their style preferences, color harmonies, and the ongoing quest for sustainable fashion.
Aesthetic Over Fashion Statements: For the Chinmaya Sisters, the focus isn’t on setting fashion trends but rather on presenting themselves aesthetically and appropriately on stage. Uma emphasizes, “We don’t intend to make any fashion statements when we dress up. The idea is to dress up aesthetically, appropriately and look tastefully dressed on the stage.”
Sari Tradition Continues: When it comes to music-related events, the Chinmaya Sisters are steadfast in their choice of attire – the classic sari. Radhika notes, “Whether it is judging an event, performing, or just attending a kutcheri, we are the Chinmaya Sisters then, not just Uma and Radhika.” Their commitment to the sari is not only a nod to tradition but a deliberate choice to stand out in a sea of contemporary fashion.
Playing with Colors: In the realm of color preferences, the duo opts for a variety, carefully avoiding the monotony of wearing the same colors. Radhika explains, “We try to go for a variety of colors, and the tricky part is that we don’t wear the same color, so we have to look for colors which complement each other.” Uma adds, “We go in for nice bright colors – something that stands out.”
Material Matters: While deeply rooted in tradition, the Chinmaya Sisters are on a mission to embrace sustainable fashion. Radhika reveals, “We have been trying to make the switch to organic fabric and use cruelty-free fabrics for a while now.” However, the transition proves challenging, especially given the cultural significance of Kanjeevaram silk in their tradition and the Margazhi fashion scene.
Comfort in Elegance: Comfort is paramount for the sisters, particularly in the sweltering Chennai heat. Choosing lightweight cottons and non-silk materials allows them to stay comfortable while exuding elegance on stage. Uma emphasizes, “Comfort is an important factor for us, especially in a city like Chennai, which can be very hot.”
Fashion Funda and Tips: The sisters live by the philosophy of wearing what suits them well, makes them feel good, and ensures comfort. As Uma suggests, “Sticking to what you think is comfortable is important; performing a whole concert when you aren’t comfortable isn’t worth it.” Additionally, when it comes to their duo performances, meticulous planning is invested in complementing colors to enhance their stage presence.
As the Margazhi season unfolds, the Chinmaya Sisters continue to strike a harmonious balance between tradition, aesthetics, and sustainability, showcasing that true elegance transcends fleeting fashion trends.
