For a few hours on 20th September afternoon, a group of women in Sydney stepped into a world of royal elegance, rich fabrics, elaborate jewellery and Nawabi hospitality. Saree Club’s September gathering, aptly titled ‘Begums, Brocade & Nazaakat’, at Kebabiya was an invitation to rediscover the royalty within each woman, not through titles or status, but through the simple pleasure of dressing up, celebrating culture and enjoying the company of other women.
The afternoon began long before the first plate of food was served. The women arrived dressed in their finest, transforming the place into a colourful tableau reminiscent of the Nawabi era. Brocade sarees, jewel tones, intricate jewellery, traditional accessories and carefully styled looks reflected the individual interpretations of what it meant to be a modern-day Begum. There was no prescribed way to look the part. Some women embraced the theme wholeheartedly, while others interpreted it more subtly. Yet each woman brought something unique to the occasion. And that was precisely the spirit of this September meet up.
Saree Club has always sought to create a space where women can come together without the pressure of comparison or conformity. The theme provided an opportunity to dress up and have fun, but it also allowed each woman to express her own personality and version of regal elegance. An impromptu fashion walk soon followed. With ada and nazaakat – grace, poise and a touch of theatrical flair – on full display, the women walked, posed and laughed their way through an informal celebration of their sartorial choices. The inevitable photo sessions followed, capturing not just the outfits but the camaraderie of the afternoon.
The visual spectacle was soon complemented by an equally lavish culinary experience. The chefs at Kebabiya prepared a Nawabi-inspired feast that reflected the grandeur of the theme. The menu featured Shahi Reshmi Seekh Kebab, Nawabi Shami Kebab, Daal-e-Kebabiya, Sheermal, Chilli Lehsuni Mini Naan, Awadhi Murg Ki Biryani, Gulab Jamun-e-Khas with Rabri and Kehwa. The meal also included vegetarian and Jain options, ensuring that the celebration remained inclusive and that everyone could participate fully in the experience.
And while the food provided a feast for the senses, the conversations around the tables provided the real nourishment.
Women at different tables mingled, exchanged stories and shared anecdotes about their lives. Some were reconnecting with familiar faces, while others were meeting fellow members for the first time. Laughter punctuated conversations as friendships deepened and new connections were formed.
It is this aspect of Saree Club that extends beyond its love of the saree. Founded around the idea of bringing women together through sarees, stories, culture, traditions and memories, the club has evolved into a platform for connection and community. Its gatherings provide women with an opportunity to step away from the demands and routines of everyday life and simply enjoy being themselves in the company of other women.
‘Begums, Brocade & Nazaakat’ was therefore more than a themed lunch. It was a celebration of femininity, individuality, friendship and culture, with a generous helping of food and laughter on the side.
As the afternoon drew to a close, the modern-day Begums departed, their finery packed away for another day. But they left with something that could not be folded into a saree cupboard or captured in a photograph – new conversations, shared laughter, renewed friendships and memories of an afternoon well spent. Their hearts full, their stomachs full and for a few wonderful hours, the royalty within each of them awakened.
– Poornima Menon
