Replying to the controversies surrounding the costumes worn by Indian athletes at the Paris Olympics 2024, Tarun Tahiliani said he wanted the tricolor of the Indian flag on the costumes of Indian athletes, as many other countries follow this, to be visible from afar, and he had very little time to design this. He told NDTV that he stands by the design and that he and his team have followed the guidelines.
Amid the rising controversies on social media, the designer said, “This is what Indians wear, and we had to make various last-minute changes to it.” He mentioned that he and his team followed all the guidelines of the International Olympic Committee while designing the attire. He added, “I accept that people can have their views, but I stand by what I did.” He exclusively told NDTV that it was easier to design a zardozi vest, but it’s not appropriate.
Tahiliani said that they had almost three weeks to design the attire, and it was not possible for his team to weave the Handloom 300 uniform in that short period. “The shoes were brocade, brocade from Benares,” the designer said.
Some of the social media users have criticized the designer because the attire has the logo of "Tasva,” and users think India is a country known for its rich heritage, and this attire doesn’t justify it.
In reply to the controversy over the logo Tasva, an Aditya Birla Group brand of which Mr. Tahiliani is the chief design officer, used on costumes, the designer said, “A symbol was made into the border, that’s all, and if you see it in the photograph, you won’t even notice it.” Earlier, the Indian flag was there, but one could not use it, and they followed the guidelines, Tahiliani said.
Tasva previously said in a statement that it was honored to design dresses for Team India with the renowned designer Tarun Tahiliani. It is a prestigious collaboration with Tasva as the “Official Ceremonial Dressing Partner” for Team India at the Paris Olympics 2024, as it is a global stage to represent India on a big stage. The tricolor on the attire of Indian athletes represents the pride and unity of the country. The Bundi jacket and pre-pleated saree with cotton and viscose crepe fabric ensure the comfort of athletes and also focus on showcasing Indian tradition.
