Established in 1977 by the United Nations, International Women’s Day was celebrated in many countries on March 8.
But for a group of women in Malaysia, the celebration took a unique turn – they slipped into their finest sarees and hit the bowling alley for a strikingly fun day out!
The women bowlers of “Saree Up to Strike” transformed Sunway Mega Lanes into a dazzling display of sisterhood and culture.
Organised by “Paavai Looms Empire” – a local boutique saree brand – the tournament saw over 65 women embracing the sport in style, proving that nothing, not even attire, could slow them down.
Shalini Priyah Mogan, founder of “Paavai” told FMT Lifestyle how the event was born out of her love for the garment.
“I absolutely love wearing sarees. My friends are exactly the same – we somehow end up buying a saree every month! So, the five of us decided to come together to share our passion with others.”
That passion led to the creation of “Paavai”, a boutique saree brand named after the Tamil word for “beautiful girl”, in October 2024.
Shalini explained that their goal is to encourage women to embrace sarees beyond just weddings and traditional functions.
“Sarees are easy, convenient, and comfortable. I’ve always wondered why don’t women wear them more often?” she said. “My mom still wears a saree even when she’s just going to the market!”
With Women’s Day being the perfect occasion to celebrate the beauty and versatility of sarees, “Saree Up to Strike” was born. But why bowling?
“Bowling is all about aiming for a strike and trying again until you succeed. That’s something we wanted to highlight to every woman out there: aim for your goal, keep going, and have fun along the way,” Shalini explained.
And fun was definitely in the air. The women cheered each other on with high-fives and laughter echoing through the 17 lanes.
The tournament, initially planned for just 10 lanes, expanded due to overwhelming response. “I can’t even describe this feeling. We’re very grateful,” said Shalini.
The event ran from 10am to 1pm, featuring two full games of bowling, and the energy never dipped. Prizes were up for grabs, including Best Team Name, which went to “Saree-ously Single”.
FMT Lifestyle also caught up with “best dressed” winner Gowri Vinayagam, 47, from Klang. A mother of three, including a special needs child, Gowri credited her husband for always encouraging her to take part in such events. “Today, I just feel an extraordinary sense of excitement,” she said.
Donning a “kandangi” saree, originating from Tamil Nadu and known for its colourful chequered pattern and unique draping, Gowri went all out. She accessorised with bold pieces and even attached tiny bowling pin ornaments to her outfit just for the event.
“The moment I got the invitation, my first thought was to wear something truly unique. So, I really prepared for this,” Gowri said.
By the end of the event, spirits were high, friendships were strengthened, and the message was clear – “We have to lift each other up,” Shalini said. “If women continue to stand together, the sky’s the limit.”
Follow Paavai on Tik Tok.