Sarees – An Attire Passed Down As Fashion Down The Ages

The 1st century AD saw the Saree in its earliest form. It was a brief garment with a veil. A well-known Indian painter of the 19thcentury was asked to paint various goddesses. For this purpose, he looked for a wear, which suited the goddesses he was to paint. He scouted the length and breadth of the sub-continent for that perfect female-wear and he found one, in the form of Saree, a garment that in his opinion was made for a perfect female wear. It fitted and presented a woman, as they should be.

History too tells us that famous Indian historical battles fought by the heroines like Queen Jhansi Laxmibai, Belawadi Mallamma and Kittur Chennamma wore Saree during their battles. Neatly and tightly tucked away between the legs, the saree enabled them to battle enemy troops on horseback. These sarees were longer in length than the regular ones and worn like Dhoti, wrapped around in total grace and elegance.

Saree, the world’s oldest surviving garment, is still de rigueur outfit for most brides. Indian marriages showcase our ancient rich heritage in the form of saree draped by brides from different regions. Even colours and patterns woven in various fabrics of saree, signify many beliefs embedded in our culture. The bride’s charm heightens more in a beautiful saree. There are varied ranges to choose from. Like Mysore silks, Banarsis, Kanjivarams, Paithanis, Pochampallis, Patolas, Tanchois, Tangails, Jamawars, Balucharis, Zardosis, Gharcholas, those embellished with rich gold and silver embroidery, mirrors, crystals and beads to designer saris.