Mumbai: UP Warriorz has unveiled their new playing jersey — a powerful expression of identity, ambition and cultural pride — designed in collaboration with Ekaya Banaras, India’s first luxury handloom brand celebrated for its finest Banarasi craftsmanship. More than just a sporting kit, the jersey reflects the franchise’s belief that when women take centre stage, they shape culture and communities around them.
With Ekaya as the official design partner, the collaboration introduces the *“A Blooming Rebellion”* jersey — a fusion of contemporary sport and timeless craft. Drawing inspiration from Banaras’ floral heritage and Ekaya’s iconic weaving tradition, the design reinterprets cultural motifs through a modern, performance-driven lens. Rooted in the symbolism of flowers in Banarasi culture — markers of strength, continuity and renewal — the jersey transforms the language of silk and storytelling into a bold, future-facing sporting aesthetic.
Representing Uttar Pradesh, a state rich in heritage, craft and history, UP Warriorz continues to embody regional pride while redefining the future of women’s sport. Each player wearing the jersey stands not only as an athlete, but as a beacon of aspiration for young girls across the state and beyond — encouraging them to see themselves as participants, leaders and changemakers.
The partnership brings together two journeys shaped by shared values. With its 120-year-old Banarasi legacy, Ekaya represents the contemporary Indian woman — rooted in tradition yet confidently moving toward the future. Much like the Warriorz, the brand believes culture gains relevance when it evolves with time and finds expression in new spaces.
Jinisha Sharma, Director, Capri Sports, said, “UP Warriorz was created with the belief that when women step forward, they don’t just play sport, they shape culture. This jersey is an extension of that belief. Our collaboration with Ekaya brings together Banarasi heritage and modern ambition, creating a playing kit that carries meaning beyond the field. It represents the pride of Uttar Pradesh, the strength of its women, and a future where tradition and progress coexist, confidently and visibly.”
Palak Shah, Founder and CEO, Ekaya Banaras said, “At Ekaya, we’ve always believed in women shaping narratives. In a craft ecosystem traditionally owned, woven, and traded by men, we chose to build a house that is represented, led, and worn by women. Cricket, too, has long been seen as a gentleman’s sport. So when the opportunity came to create for a women’s cricket team carving their own place within it, the decision felt instinctive. I think this collaboration comes from a shared belief in changing perspectives, uplifting women, and reimagining what legacy craft can stand for today.”
