'Zero Sense Of Aesthetics': Internet Reacts To India's Olympic Kit

The Summer Olympics of 2024 will be held in Paris from July 26 to August 11. Teams will display outfits that pay homage to their cultural history at the opening and closing ceremonies. At the opening event, Team India’s athletes will wear kurta bundi sets, while their female counterparts will wear matching saris that resemble the tricolour flag. A man has, however, expressed his opinion about the Indian outfits and likened them to Mongolia’s official uniform. He referred to Team India’s outfit as “tacky”.

The user posted two pictures with one showing Indian attire and one showing Mongolian. The caption read, “Looking at the Indian Olympic Uniform contrasted with Mongolia’s.”

The user asked whether everything we create needs to have a “tacky” appearance. He continued by saying that one would assume the Olympic ceremony would be at the very least “refined.”

In a subsequent post on a related topic, he revealed that the costume was created by a genuine “design house.” The user went on to say that the same design firm created the Kardashians’ outfit for the Ambani wedding.

The user continued by claiming that it demonstrates these individuals’ lack of concern for national representation and design. “Gave minimal effort and moved on to celebs,” the person added.

With over 6 lakh views, the post has triggered a lot of discussion on social media. A user commented, “I believe our nation’s creativity and cultural richness should shine in every aspect, including the Olympic uniform. It’s an opportunity to showcase our heritage with elegance and pride. Let’s encourage designs that celebrate our diversity and craftsmanship, reflecting the spirit of our athletes and the beauty of our traditions.”

Another said, “It’s giving an independence day function at school.”

A third user stated, “We have zero sense of aesthetics.”

“When the arts are not respected in society, this happens,” read another comment.

A user suggested, “Bharat has so many traditional dresses. Adapt any of these to create an aesthetic Olympics uniform. Give this as a competition to students at NIFT instead of established designers.”

The bulk of comments emphasised the design, the drapes and the type of fabric that was utilised. Several users made the point that India has to improve its national presence on these platforms.