The saree is not merely a piece of clothing but a powerful symbol of India’s cultural identity. While countless varieties of sarees are worn across the country, a Mumbai-based fashion designer has now created a saree so rare and opulent that it has drawn attention far beyond India’s borders. Valued at an astonishing ₹39 crore, this saree is embedded with gold and diamonds, making it one of the most expensive garments ever created.

The saree has been designed by renowned fashion designer Rohit Pisal, popularly known as Goldenman. He dedicated this unique creation to Mata Ramabai Ambedkar, the wife of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, on her birth anniversary on February 7. According to the designer, the saree is not just a luxury item but a tribute to sacrifice, resilience and social reform.

What Makes the ₹39-Crore Saree Unique

Speaking to TV9 Bharatvarsh, Rohit Pisal revealed that nearly 2 kilograms of pure gold have been used in crafting the saree. A detailed portrait of Mata Ramabai Ambedkar has been engraved on the fabric using gold, a process that required specialised chemical treatment as gold does not easily adhere to textile material.

The entire project took close to three months to complete, though the actual gold-coating process was completed in approximately four hours. Pisal explained that the challenge lay not in speed but in precision, technique and durability of the design.

Designer’s Inspiration Behind the Creation

Explaining the emotional significance of the saree, Rohit Pisal said that Mata Ramabai Ambedkar endured extreme poverty and hardship. She reportedly sold her jewellery to ensure food for her children. The designer stated that the saree was created to honour her sacrifices and dignity.

“My intention was to show that the woman who once embraced society with a torn pallu can today be honoured with a pallu adorned in gold and diamonds,” Pisal said.

Diamonds Worth ₹33 Crore Embedded in the Design

One of the most striking features of the saree is the bindi on Mata Ramabai’s portrait, which alone is made from a 100-gram gold biscuit and studded with diamonds worth approximately ₹33 crore. According to the designer, the diamonds include rare varieties such as Rudra, Prajapati, 11 Vasu, Ashwin and Aditya, making the ornament both spiritually symbolic and materially priceless.

Auction and Social Purpose

The saree will be auctioned by a Dubai-based company, and significantly, the entire proceeds from the sale will be used for social welfare initiatives, including the construction of hospitals and schools. A regiment dedicated to Dr B.R. Ambedkar is also planned as part of the initiative.

Before the auction, the saree will be displayed across various cities in India. Rohit Pisal has further expressed his wish for the saree to eventually be showcased at the Buckingham Palace Museum in London, allowing the world to witness this fusion of art, history and social commitment.