At the hyderabad Saree Run, women decked up in bright sarees and sneakers are getting ready to shatter the dress code. A first-of-its-kind event in hyderabad on march 17 at People's Plaza on Necklace Road encourages women in their midlife to start an adventure in fitness while dressed casually.
 
The race will take place on a three-kilometer track that is marked with tiny treats, water stations, and roadblocks. There will be two ambulances on standby that are outfitted with female doctors and nurses.
 

"We want to create the vibe of a carnival." The goal is to raise awareness, assist women in prioritizing fitness, and encourage them to enjoy themselves while running. Jayashree, one of the Saree Run organizers, told The Hindu, "Bring your friends along."
 
In an attempt to bring about change, the members talked to a variety of women to learn why they did not place a high value on exercise. Most people indicated they didn't have time, but several also mentioned they didn't look well in the clothes. Jayashree observed, "So, attire and fitness have become synonymous." She also mentioned how unrealistically an hourglass body is portrayed by female celebrity role models. The remainder of us are still battling problems related to our bodies and body shaming.
 

The story of the Saree Run began when the Bengaluru-based running organization, the Jayanagar Jaguars, began preparing for a half-marathon. "There were only four women in this group, which started a conversation," Jayashree remarked. According to coach Pramod Deshpande, women are hesitant to begin exercise regimens.
 
The first step was to force the middle-aged (in their 30s) ladies to go outside and engage in an activity that would inspire them to prioritize their fitness. Since the aim is to dispel preconceptions, homemakers are the target audience.
 

An instagram user who posts about her achievements on social media and is wearing shorts and a T-shirt for a marathon feels alienated. But these women are a lot like me and you. Despite dealing with a number of challenges at home, they push limits, make room for themselves, and preserve balance," she continued.
 
Bengaluru, Pune, and kolkata have all hosted sari runs since they began in 2016. In 2023, 7,500 individuals attended the run-in, compared to just 20 women who took part in the first one. Ladies donned their prettiest sarees; some wore nauvaris, others in the Coorgi or Gujarati traditions, and some in nine yards, representing south India.
 

Find out more: