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Mumbai That evening at the Royal Opera House, not just a sari was unveiled, there was an eternal story of history, courage and justice. The four kilometer long ‘Infinite Saree’ not only became the world’s longest saree, but it also became the voice of millions of women whose consent was ignored under the guise of marriage. By weaponizing the oldest symbol of culture, this initiative directly challenged the law that still shy away from criminalizing marital rape.

Spread over four kilometers, this saree is the world’s longest saree ever made, which has been designed by famous fashion designer Nivedita Sabu. Through embroidery, colors and special prints, the saree becomes a symbolic petition demanding justice, signed by hundreds of people. Its length is so enormous that it can encircle the base of the Taj Mahal twice—as if to suggest that the question of consent is equally broad and ignored.

The inspiration for ‘Infinite Saree’ has been taken from a mythological story about two thousand years old, in which a woman is protected by the infinite form of her saree. Adapting the same symbol to today’s context, this saree is a reminder of a woman’s physical autonomy and her right to say ‘no’ even within marriage.
Supreet K., Co-Founder and CEO of Red Dot Foundation. Singh said, “Each signature on the ‘Infinite Saree’ is a thread of courage. Every fold of it testifies to the right a woman has to say yes or no as per her wish. Consent is not a marital privilege, but a basic human right. There is no scope for further delay.”

According to designer Nivedita Sabu, “This saree is an attempt to challenge and reform the same culture through culture. India’s traditions cannot be an obstacle to change but can become its foundation. I am proud that this garment has now become a symbol of justice and equality.”

Data from the National Family Health Survey and recent reports further highlight the seriousness of this initiative. One in three women in India has suffered physical or sexual violence from her husband. Despite this, more than 90 percent of women neither lodge complaints nor seek help—because the law still does not fully protect them.

“When victims, society and policy-makers stand together, change becomes not only possible, but inevitable. Marital rape can no longer hide behind marriage,” said Jaria Patni, a survivor of sexual violence and social activist. Actor and campaign ambassador Rahul Bhatt also called the initiative a question of humanity and said that every woman’s home should be safe—no matter what the law says.

After being unveiled at the Opera House, ‘Infinite Saree’ will be displayed at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026. This exhibition will be held at Elphinstone College from 31 January to 8 February, where this saree will not be an artwork but will stand in front of the audience as a living question. ‘Infinite Saree’ is a reminder that marriage does not end consent, and the right to say ‘no’ never ends.