Participants pose with celebrities Denes Kumar, Dr Vimala Perumal, Logeswari Shanmugam, Geethanjali G and PAAVAI founders Khirja, Shalini and Kristna, at Sunway Pyramid, on March 8, 2025. -- Images provided by PAAVAI Looms Empire
THESE days the fashion world can be seeing going back to its roots and that's the traditional way-style of clothing. And saree - the famous and well-beloved traditional Indian wear - is 'striking' a blow for style these days.
And a group of Malaysian gals - young and old - have even gone a step further. There has been some events where ladies take part in Saree Runs, but a group of ladies in Selangor upped the saree in higher way this time around - and that was in Malaysia's first-ever saree-themed bowling tournament.
Besides just fun and laughter, 68 women jostled for a spirited day of competition at the Sunway Mega Lanes held recently in conjunction with the International Women’s Day
The “Saree Up to Strike” Bowling Tournament by PAAVAI Looms Empire made history as the first-ever event in Malaysia where women played bowling in sarees.
Held at the weekend at Sunway Mega Lanes, Sunway Pyramid, the event gathered 68 women dressed in sarees, blending tradition with modern recreation in a bold and empowering statement.
The event which was held from 10am to 1pm, featuring two full games of bowling, also saw the participants having good fun as laughter filled the air throughout the day.
What Makes This Event Unique?
-- First of its kind in Malaysia – 68 women bowled in sarees, breaking norms and redefining tradition.
-- Cultural revival meets modern lifestyle – Showcasing that sarees are not just for special occasions but can be part of everyday life.
-- Empowerment through self-celebration – Women do not need to wait for Women’s Day to be celebrated; sometimes, they must celebrate themselves.
-- Encouraging networking and sisterhood – A gathering of like-minded women supporting each other beyond just the game.
-- Wonderful response leading to an annual event – Due to the overwhelming enthusiasm, PAAVAI plans to host this every year with more exciting additions.
-- Founded in October 2024 by Shalini Priyah Mogan, a well known media personality and news presenter, Khirjaa Palanisamy, and Kristna Devi Sundram, PAAVAI is a movement aimed at inspiring women to embrace the saree as a modern lifestyle choice rather than just a traditional attire.
At the end of the day, it just did not matter who won as all the participants were in such high spirits and prizes were awarded for • Top 5 winners; • Best Dressed; • Best Team Name; • Best Team Gesture and • Highest Pin Drop
Several top Indian celebrities also joined in the fun including the likes of Datuk Geethanjali G, Datin Logeswari Shanmugam, Dr. Vimala Perumal and top local actor and film producer Denes Kumar.
"Beyond the competition, the event sends a strong message: Women are free to do anything, and traditions should empower, not restrict. Sarees are a lifestyle, not a limitation," said main event official Shalini. "We also wanted to show that the saree is not just cultural attire but a symbol of strength and versatility."
Beyond competition, the event highlighted women’s empowerment, blending cultural heritage with contemporary expression.
“Women should feel free to celebrate themselves in every way possible. Events like these provide a platform to foster confidence, self-appreciation and shared celebration,” said Geethanjali.
Meanwhile, Dr Vimala Perumal, a top local Indian film and teleseries producer, emphasised the deeper message of the day: “It’s not just about the scores, it’s about appreciating each other.
"When women feel confident, they can do anything. Let’s cheer for one another, that’s the least we can do to help each other shine.” she added.
As PAAVAI Looms Empire, also a well-known saree boutique and brand, wrapped up its debut event, Shalini hinted at more to come. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to making the saree a lifestyle choice for the modern woman.”
SISTERS are doing it for themselves (in pictures)
