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Von der Leyen's Banarasi Bandhgala Steals Spotlight at Republic Day Parade

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen chose a custom Banarasi brocade bandhgala jacket by noted designer Rajesh Pratap Singh for India's Republic Day celebrations. The vibrant burgundy and gold outfit was widely interpreted as a graceful nod to India's rich textile heritage and craftsmanship. Singh expressed his pleasure at her choice, emphasizing the garment's deep cultural significance and its creation in a Varanasi studio. The event coincided with the opening of FDCI India Men's Weekend 2026 in Jaipur, where Singh also presented a powerful, reflective collection.

Key Points: EU Chief's Indian Outfit by Rajesh Pratap Singh Praised

  • Von der Leyen wore Banarasi brocade
  • Designed by Rajesh Pratap Singh
  • Seen as cultural respect gesture
  • Showcased at FDCI Men's Weekend
  • Highlights Indian textile legacy
2 min read

"Glad she chose something out of Indian heritage": Designer Rajesh Pratap Singh on EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen's outfit

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wore a Banarasi brocade jacket by designer Rajesh Pratap Singh for India's Republic Day, highlighting heritage.

"I'm glad she chose something out of Indian heritage - Rajesh Pratap Singh"

By Nikita Bishay, Jaipur, February 8

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen made a striking sartorial statement at India's 77th Republic Day parade by wearing a Banarasi brocade bandhgala jacket designed by noted Indian designer Rajesh Pratap Singh, drawing attention to India's rich textile heritage.

The bandhgala, crafted in a vibrant blend of burgundy and gold, featured clean lines and a regal silhouette and was paired with white trousers, reflecting a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary elegance.

Talking about the outfit, Rajesh Pratap Singh told ANI, "I don't think so much. I just make things. I'm just a tailor. I just made it."

Expressing happiness over von der Leyen's choice, the descinger said, "I'm glad she chose something out of Indian heritage and a textile which is very close to all of us as Indians. It was done in a studio in Varanasi, and they did a beautiful job. I was just a medium."

Asked about the reaction to the ensemble, Singh said it did not matter much to him and thanked everyone for the appreciation.

By choosing Indian brocade for the Republic Day celebrations, von der Leyen's attire was widely seen as a gesture of cultural respect. The outfit resonated across social media platforms, with many praising her choice as an elegant nod to India's traditional craftsmanship and textile legacy.

Meanwhile, Day 1 of FDCI India Men's Weekend 2026 marked a grand opening against the regal backdrop of Jaipur's iconic Diggi Palace, setting a confident and majestic tone for the weekend celebrating the evolving landscape of men's fashion. With a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, culture, and contemporary design, the opening day showcased how tradition and modernity continue to shape the future of menswear.

At the heart of the showcase was the House of Glenfiddich x Three Sixty Collection, presented as a design-led expression of considered living and enduring craftsmanship.

Designer Rajesh Pratap Singh delivered a powerful closing presentation on Day 1, leaving audiences reflecting on his restrained storytelling of the world's current realities. With faces hidden, gazes lowered, and a solemn mood, the presentation also carried a strong performative element.

Beyond the garments, Day 1 of FDCI India Men's Weekend 2026 underscored a deeper purpose, positioning the runway as a space for artistic expression, creativity, and storytelling.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
This is fantastic cultural diplomacy. When global leaders wear our textiles, it tells the world about India's soft power. Hope this leads to more international orders for our weavers in Varanasi. Their skill is unparalleled.
A
Aman W
While I appreciate the gesture, I do wish our own politicians and officials would champion Indian designers and handlooms with this much consistency. We see it often for foreign guests, but the everyday promotion is lacking.
S
Sarah B
The blend of burgundy and gold sounds stunning! The bandhgala is such a classic silhouette. It's wonderful to see traditional Indian menswear elements being adapted so elegantly for a woman in a position of power. A powerful sartorial statement indeed.
K
Karthik V
The real heroes are the karigars in Varanasi. "They did a beautiful job" – Singh is right to highlight them. This spotlight should translate into better sustainable livelihoods for these master weavers. That's the true measure of success.
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Nidhi U
Love this! It shows how Indian fashion is truly global now. From the Republic Day parade to the FDCI Men's Week in Jaipur, our design narrative is strong. The future of fashion is here, and it's beautifully blending tradition with contemporary thought. ✨

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