In an industry often characterized by high glamour, acclaimed actress Konkona Sensharma consistently opts for a more subdued and authentic aesthetic. Known for her powerful performances in films such as Mr. and Mrs. Iyer and Wake Up Sid, Sensharma extends this grounded sensibility to her personal wardrobe, particularly her love for traditional handloom sarees.
A Lifelong Connection to Handloom
Sensharma revealed that her affinity for handloom fabrics is not a curated image but a natural extension of her identity, deeply influenced by her childhood. "I've never been a fan of bling, sequins, or anything too ornate. That's just not me," she stated, explaining that this preference has been consistent throughout her life. She finds wearing handloom to be an "organic fit" that feels authentic to her.
Her connection to traditional textiles stems from a formative upbringing steeped in crafts and culture. While her mother didn't formally teach her about specific weaves like Ikat, Sensharma grew up immersed in these traditions. She recalls attending arts and crafts fairs and observing artisans at work, fostering an instinctive appreciation for diverse fabrics and designs.
"It wasn't like my mother formally taught me... It was simply an extension of her personality, and by default, it became mine. I grew up surrounded by these things."
This early exposure meant that handloom wasn't just confined to clothing; it was integral to her home environment. Curtains, furniture fabrics, and decorative objects like Dhokra pieces and leather puppets from Karnataka were all part of her everyday landscape, instilling a deep appreciation for India's rich craft heritage.
Comfort and Authenticity in Draping
Today, Konkona Sensharma consciously integrates sarees, especially simple cottons and linens, into her daily life. She finds them incredibly comfortable and easy to wear, noting that while silks can be tricky, cotton offers an effortless experience. This return to daily saree-wearing reflects a comfort and practicality she values.
However, there's one aspect of saree fashion that Sensharma firmly rejects: readymade sarees. "I really can't bear readymade sarees – that's my pet peeve," she asserted. For her, the essence and beauty of a saree lie in the act of draping it oneself, a process that forms a unique connection between the wearer and the garment.