Garden City University (GCU), Bengaluru has introduced a new convocation attire inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Mysuru, marking a significant departure from the conventional British-style academic gowns traditionally worn at university convocations.
The new attire was unveiled during the university’s two-day convocation ceremony, which concluded recently. The initiative reflects the vision of the Chancellor of Garden City University, Joseph to create an academic ceremonial identity rooted in Indian culture and heritage.
A convocation is not merely a formal academic ceremony; it is a celebration of achievement, knowledge and our cultural identity. We wanted to move beyond the conventional British-style academic gown and create an attire that reflects our own traditions. The Mysuru-inspired design beautifully connects academic achievement with Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage,” Joseph, the Chancellor of GCU said.
The responsibility of translating this vision into a distinctive ceremonial design was entrusted to the Department of Fashion Design, and Prof. Babli Shome, developed the concept. The new collection includes distinct designs for different categories of participants.
“My inspiration came from the traditional Mysuru practice of honouring achievers with the Peta and shawl. I felt that this cultural tradition could be meaningfully connected with the achievement of a degree. The new attire is therefore not merely a costume; it represents recognition, dignity, achievement and our cultural identity,” said Prof. Babli Shome.
The project presented a significant logistical challenge. More than 1,000 students had to be provided with the new attire within a very short timeframe. Several production agencies across the country declined the assignment because of the short deadline. However, Inspired Uniforms, a Coimbatore-based production company, accepted the challenge and completed the entire task within just one week.
Reflecting on the experience, Prof. Shome said, “The timeline was extremely challenging. We had to design, coordinate and produce the attire for more than 1,000 students within a very short period. Many production houses were unable to take up the assignment because of the deadline and budget. “Inspired Uniforms” in Coimbatore supported the vision with remarkable dedication. Their commitment and ability to complete the work within one week was truly inspiring.”
The university authorities appreciated Prof. Babli Shome for her artistic vision, creativity and exceptional commitment to the institution. Her contribution went beyond the creation of a new dress code; she transformed the Chancellor’s cultural vision into a visual identity for one of the university’s most important academic ceremonies.
The Chancellor further said, “Prof. Babli Shome has demonstrated how creativity, professional expertise and institutional commitment can come together to create something meaningful. Her dedication and artistic vision have given GCU a distinctive convocation identity that celebrates both academic excellence and Indian heritage.”
The introduction of the new Mysuru-inspired convocation attire represents a conscious effort by Garden City University to connect academic traditions with Indian cultural values. It also demonstrates the role of fashion and design in shaping institutional identity and communicating cultural values.
Through this initiative, GCU has created more than a new convocation costume. It has established a ceremonial tradition that brings together academic achievement, cultural heritage, artistic creativity and institutional identity.
