Saree out, sneakers in: Why Saayoni Ghosh once copied Mamata Banerjee’s signature look

White cotton sarees, a small bindi and a simple bun once became synonymous with Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP and actor-turned-politician Saayoni Ghosh.

Today, however, the politician is increasingly being spotted in jeans, T-shirts, kurtis and sneakers, with a fresh haircut replacing the traditional bun that had become part of her political image.

The dramatic shift in style has caught the attention of political observers and social media users alike, especially because Ghosh had once openly admitted that her earlier appearance was inspired by TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee.

For the last two years, Ghosh’s wardrobe closely mirrored Banerjee’s trademark simplicity.

Many political commentators viewed it as an attempt to align herself with the image of a leader known for her austere lifestyle and connect more closely with grassroots voters.

As Ghosh made the transition from films to politics, the resemblance in style became increasingly noticeable.

However, in an interview with TV9 Bangla in November last year, the MP from Jadavpur insisted there was a reason behind it.

‘If I work for Mamata Banerjee’s party and end up looking like Narendra Modi, a CPM leader or Sonia Gandhi, that would be strange. I want to look like the leader whose party I represent. I want to remain as simple as she is and stay close to the people,’ she had said, adding that Mamata Banerjee’s simplicity had gradually influenced her own lifestyle and appearance.

That is why her recent transformation has generated fresh speculation. Following the party’s disappointing electoral performance, Ghosh’s public appearances have reflected a noticeably different image.

The cotton sarees have largely made way for casual western wear and contemporary ethnic outfits, while her overall presentation appears more individualistic than before.

The makeover has prompted political watchers to ask whether Saayoni is consciously reshaping her personal brand.

Is she attempting to step out of Mamata Banerjee’s shadow and project an independent identity? Or is the change simply a personal style choice unrelated to politics?

There are no clear answers yet. But one thing is certain: Ghosh’s evolving look has become a talking point well beyond fashion circles, adding a new layer to the conversation around image-making, symbolism and identity in Bengal politics.