To mark Pride Month 2025, we are exploring the recently opened Sari Stories Exhibition.
Produced by Sampad and Midlands Centre, and curated by Gugan Gill, Sari Stories weaves together a rich collection of stories about particular saris from people across the Midlands, including reflections on gender and queer identity.
Seemaa Butt a South Asian drag queen based in Birmingham, who sees wearing a sari as “an act of defiance” in the face of racism and racial profiling within the LGBTQ+ community. They say: “I have faced a lot of racism especially within the LGBTQ+ community as my traditional clothing has often attracted violence and made me vulnerable to racial profiling. I have worn saris to many gay pride events over the years bringing South Asian glamour with big hair, big jewellery, dramatic makeup and bold colours representing my South Asian heritage and my queerness.
“I feel it is important to be visible for those who are not able to. In some instances, wearing a sari has become an act of defiance. The sari is my body armour as the long and unstitched fabric draped around my body always gives me a sense of protection.”
Mia Weston thought she would have to give up an important part of her heritage after transitioning from male to female, as she had lost access to her family. However, “something clicked” when she was gifted her first sari.
She says: “I knew I could have my gender expression alongside my beautifully rich heritage. I feel my ancestors, my power and my Divine energy when I drape a sari.”
– Mia Weston
Sari Stories is free to view at MAC’s Community Gallery until Sunday 19th October 2025. Made possible by Arts Council England.
