The charm of handspun saris like the benarasi, kanjeevaram and chanderi has almost faded, but designers like Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Ritu Kumar feel that actresses Vidya Balan in particular - can play a key role in reviving the traditional Indian six-yard wonder. While most B-town actresses step out in gowns, designer dresses and even saris made of net, georgette and chiffon, Vidya flaunts ethnic weaves and fabrics, helping her stand out.

"I think there are just a few actresses who are trying kanjeevaram saris and the list includes Vidya Balan, Rekha and some veterans. I want young girls to understand that dignity makes them better stars rather than exposing their body," Mukherjee, whose creations are dominated by ethnic Indian weaves, told IANS. He feels Vidya's newfound fame can single-handedly bring hand-woven saris back in vogue.

"I feel proud that Vidya chooses my creations for most of her events. Keeping her success rate in mind, I'm sure she will bring back the hand-woven sari era. For me, Western wear is not a sustainable market as it lacks mass appeal because most Indian girls are voluminous. Western clothes are good for a multiplex audience, not for a simple Indian girl. It's time to make pan-India clothes," he said.

He is right as the leading ladies of Indian cinema play a major role in starting a trend. Rani Mukerji's colourful kurtis and pyjamas in Bunty Aur Babli or Kareena Kapoor's t-shirt and patiala salwar in Jab We met were instantly copied by the masses. Now Vidya is creating a stir with her traditional sari look. Designer Ritu Kumar, known for promoting hand-woven fabrics, feels that synthetics today dominate the fashion world.