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The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) unveiled the official ceremonial dress and playing kit for the Indian contingent at the Asian Games 2023 on Tuesday, September 5. IOA Chief PT Usha and Union Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Anurag Thakur did the unveiling, with Indian hockey stars Savita Punia and PR Sreejesh wearing the khaki ceremonial kits on the occasion.
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The ceremonial dress and playing kit were designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). The ceremonial dress is a khaki textured saree for women and a khaki kurta for male players, which were designed by the talented Kashmiri designer Aaquib Wani. The unique aspect of this attire is its seamless blend of Indian motifs and prints with traditional Indian silhouettes, representing India’s diverse culture on the global stage.
The dress also promotes eco-friendliness by using recycled fabrics, aligning with India’s commitment to sustainability. At the unveiling ceremony, Anurag Singh Thakur emphasized that this uniform is more than just clothing as it represents pride and identity for Indian athletes. He also revealed that the budget for Khelo India had been increased for the next three years, along with approval for 250 more Khelo India centers in addition to the 1000 targeted for this year.
Anurag Thakur said, “The ceremonial dress and the kits are made from silk and recyclable materials. These dresses have been made by the IOA and the NIFT. It is not just a uniform. It is a symbol of pride and identity of our athletes.”
IOA President Dr. PT Usha, meanwhile, said, “We have waited long for the Asian Games and are delighted that India is sending its largest contingent of 634 athletes. We believe that this squad has the potential to get India its best medal haul as well.”
India will be represented by 634 athletes in 38 disciplines at the Asian Games, which will be held from September 10 to 25. India had won 70 medals, including 16 golds, in the last edition of the Asian Games held in 2018, and the current Indian contingent will be hoping to surpass that tally and create history in Hangzhou.
