Saree-clad women run to shatter age, attire inhibitions

As many as 600 Mangaluru women, shattered all social inhibitions relating to age and attire by participating in a ‘Saree Walk and Run.’

As many as 600 women in Mangaluru, shattered all social inhibitions relating to age and attire by participating in a ‘Saree Walk and Run’ on Sunday.

The purpose of the event was to show people that wearing sarees must not come in the way of getting daily exercise.

Clad in sarees, women aged 18 to 72 years, took part in the event. They ran and walked on Mannagudda Road. The constant drizzle failed to dampen their enthusiasm. Mangaluru Women’s Run Troupe, in association with Medimade Solutions, Lions Club, JCI Club, Inner Wheel Club and other women’s clubs organised the event. Participation certificates and medals were distributed to each participant. Medical help and water counters were provided throughout the two-kilometre stretch.

The event was aimed at challenging misconceptions, and inviting women to walk and run in sarees, said event organiser Rajesh. "Many women choose not to wear tracksuits or shorts. But that must not stop them from getting daily exercise. The ‘saree walk and run’ attempts to change this mindset and encourage women not to worry about how they are perceived when they run," he said.

Madhavi, a 72-year-old woman took part in the event. She said she walks everyday to keep fit.

After the event, Sowmya Xavier and her Nethravathi Layout friends, said in a Facebook post: “Don’t let your dress and rain define your fitness level.... Nethravathi Layout ladies rock the saree run...”