The bag lady

WHO needs long speeches when a bag can say it all? Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s recent appearances in Parliament with her tote bags have turned serious issues into serious fashion statements. One day it was ‘Palestine’ written across her handbag; the next, “Stand with Bangladeshi Hindus and Christians”. Forget fiery debates — this Winter Session will be remembered for the accessories. But Priyanka isn’t alone in this trend of “message dressing”. US Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s “Tax the Rich” dress at the Met Gala in 2021 was the talk of social media. It turned an elite event into a debate on wealth inequality. Back in India, Opposition MPs have mastered the art of wearable protests. From jackets screaming “Modi-Adani Ek Hai” that they donned earlier this month to all-black outfits worn last year for solidarity with Manipur violence victims, their wardrobe seems to have become an extension of the manifesto.

Of course, such moves invite criticism. The BJP was quick to label Priyanka’s bags as “appeasement politics”, accusing her of prioritising foreign issues over domestic ones. But Priyanka brushed it off, calling the backlash “typical patriarchy”. Her defiant “who’s going to decide what I wear?” response proved she’s carrying more than just a bag — she’s carrying a message.

Symbolism in politics is a double-edged sword. While it captures attention, it risks being dismissed as superficial. Priyanka’s gesture, however, transcends mere theatrics by invoking India’s historical ethos of supporting oppressed communities, whether during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War or in advocating for Palestine’s statehood. At the end of the day, whether it is dubbed as fashion activism or clever posturing, one thing is clear: Priyanka’s tote bags aren’t just an accessory but statements invoking India’s moral responsibility in global humanitarian crises.