Marathi and Hindi film actor Girija Oak, recently acclaimed for her role in the web series 'Perfect Family', has given fans a dazzling glimpse into her personal world of traditional wear. In a detailed interview, the actor revealed she is the proud custodian of an impressive collection of over 400 sarees, blending priceless family heirlooms with contemporary designer pieces.
A Treasury of Textiles: From Vintage to Banarasi
During her conversation, Girija Oak lovingly showcased some of her most cherished sarees. The collection holds deep sentimental value, featuring pieces inherited from her mother and grandmothers. One standout was her grandmother's hand-painted chiffon saree from the 1960s-70s, a cream-coloured garment that exudes timeless regality.
The crown jewel of her assortment, however, is a stunning Banarasi Jamawar saree from the prestigious brand Raw Mango. With a playful yet awe-struck tone, Oak remarked on its value, stating, "This is my favourite saree. Thodi mehengi saree hai. This saree is worth a few kidneys." She confirmed the piece falls in the lakh and more price range, adding humorously that she owns only one Raw Mango saree as she "can't afford more."
Sarees as a Versatile and Lasting Investment
When asked about viewing sarees as an investment, Girija Oak offered practical wisdom. She emphasized that with proper care, a saree's life is virtually forever. Highlighting its adaptability, she noted that unlike other garments, "a saree can fit any size, it is very versatile." This philosophy underpins her expansive collection, which she has carefully sourced from across India, often buying directly from weavers or through trusted intermediaries who support artisans.
A Panorama of Patterns and Personal Touches
Beyond the heirlooms and the Banarasi, Oak's collection is a vibrant tapestry of India's weaving traditions. She displayed a diverse array including:
- Leheriya sarees, including a pure georgette one bought from Gujarat that arrived in a surprisingly tiny box.
- Intricate block-printed and kalamkari pieces.
- A traditional Maharashtrian Paithani.
One of the most personal items was a block-printed saree she created herself. "It is uneven because I have block printed it myself but it is special," she shared, showcasing her hands-on connection to the craft. The collection also includes a unique, eye-catching saree featuring a print of the iconic Hollywood star Audrey Hepburn, blending global style with a classic Indian drape.
Girija Oak, who has been active in the industry since 2004, gained significant recognition after her performance in the 2020 short film 'Quarter'. She has appeared in notable projects like Taare Zameen Par (2007), Shor in the City (2010), and more recently in Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan (2023) and the Netflix film Inspector Zende (2025). Her elegant traditional aesthetic, recently highlighted by a viral photo of her in a simple blue saree, finds its true expression in this magnificent personal archive of woven art.
