We all know Usha Uthup as a Musical genius, actress, and social worker but did you know her distinct sense of style is an ode to decades of passionate Saree collection? No, then tune into CRED Obsessions’ latest episode where she opens up about her obsession with Sarees and what makes certain things timeless – Usha Uthup: Celebrating Sarees and Style: https://youtu.be/ci2uCf-HqGY
• Usha’s timeless passion
Usha Uthup admits to having many obsessions, such as her bindis, bangles, flowers, and shoes, but the greatest obsession of it, she says, is her Sarees. “My mother as a middle-class woman couldn’t afford to buy too many sarees but in the select few she did own, she always included checks, dots, and stripes which never go out of fashion. This saree had the classic South Indian small checks.”, Usha emphasizes
• Memories Woven in Silk
Usha cherishes the memory of her pink silk saree, a heartfelt gift from Kamal Hassan on her birthday. She proceeds to unveil her stunning purple polka dot saree, considered a lucky charm for the Kolkata Knight Riders. Additionally, she shares her reasoning behind selecting the classic green and black saree for her appearance on KBC, expressing, “The unique yet traditional combinations on the saree perfectly mirror Amitabh Bachchan’s persona.”
• Elegance Woven in Fabric
“What an incredible journey it has been! Being recognized by my country holds the utmost significance to me,” Usha expresses. She delves into the significance of her iconic Cream Kanjivaram Sari with a Heavy Gold Border, which she proudly wore to receive her Padma Shri. Usha shares her admiration for the Blue Muga Silk Sari with exquisite gold embroidery from Assam, and a yellow silk saree that beautifully blends her Bengal and Madras roots. Highlighting her daughter’s favourite, she describes an expensive saree adorned with a Puja border featuring hamsams (Swans) in a traditional motif. Usha also reveals her affection for black sarees, showcasing her beloved black Keralan saree.
• Melodies That Echo Forever
In a heartfelt tribute, Usha Uthup reflects on SP Balasubramaniam’s timeless legacy, emphasizing the transcendent power of music. She cherishes a historic moment captured alongside Dr. K J Yeshudas and Kamal Hassan in a beautiful photograph. Usha fondly remembers singing Bindiya Chamkegi as a tribute to Lata Mangeshkar and collaborating with composer Ilayaraja. She also shares the exhilaration of playing Mamooty’s mother and riding a bike in Chattayum Mundum. In a nostalgic throwback to 1969, Usha treasures a rare white sari gifted by the film unit and a memorable conversation with Amitabh Bachchan about returning a jacket.
“1969 marked the beginning of my obsession with sarees in Madras, as my very first payment. Over time, my passion and collection expanded, with each saree carrying its own marvelous tale. With time, in a fun twist of events, I must admit my obsession with sneakers and how I now pair them with all my sarees. The idea to trade stilettos for sneakers came from my daughter, and I embraced it as a refreshing and exciting change to my wardrobe.”
CRED Obsession is an interview series by CRED available on YouTube and Instagram. Each episode looks to uncover the story that drives these collectors. After all the good life is about living your obsession. Tune into Dinesh Karthik and Ritviz episodes with CRED Obsession.
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