Air India, backed by the Tata Group, has faced criticism over its new cabin crew uniform, designed by celebrity stylist Manish Malhotra. The uniform features a “saree pant” style, which combines a saree with pants and a boat-neck blouse. The look was intended to blend tradition and modernity, but many online have labeled it as confusing and ungraceful.
Mumbai BJP leader Pallavi CT commented on the viral post, saying “Yuck. It’s like trying to be on two boats & falling down. Neither the grace of a saree nor the smartness of pants.” Others have also expressed their dissatisfaction, with one user saying “A fashion-designing fresher could have done a better job at one-thousandth of the price.”
The uniform was introduced in September 2024, with Air India stating that it reflects the airline’s new identity. The design features a ready-to-wear ombre saree with intricate patterns, reminiscent of Indian heritage architecture, and a comfortable blouse and blazer. The sarees can be optionally worn with comfortable pants, providing greater flexibility to female cabin crew.
However, the public response has been largely mixed, with many calling the combination “weird” and “unprofessional.” One user commented, “It’s not designed for Indian sensibilities nor for a globe-faring traveller. It’s most likely just a mashup he came up with, probably taking inspiration from mythical hybrids.” Another user said, “I think Manish Malhotra is either trolling Air India and its customers, or he has disdain for the Saree. Either way this is atrocious to say the least.”
Manish Malhotra had stated that his aim was to create uniforms that capture the essence of India’s diverse culture and traditions while also embodying a modern and sophisticated look. However, it seems that his design has not resonated with the public, with many expressing their disappointment and criticism online. The controversy surrounding the uniform has sparked a debate about the importance of cultural sensitivity and traditional attire in modern design.