About the Ancient Indian Women’s Garment — the Sari

Every nation is known for its distinctive traditional clothing. For the Indian people, the sari has become an inseparable part of their cultural heritage, richness and pride over the centuries.

The origins of the sari date back to the era of ancient civilizations. It is said that this type of fabric was initially used as clothing by priests around the Nile River. The word “sari”, or “sati”, is translated as “long cloth”.

Historical sources contain information suggesting that this garment was worn not only by women but also by men. Some researchers also believe that it may have been one of the earliest forms of human clothing.

There is also an interesting folk legend about the origin of the sari. According to the story, a young weaver suddenly fell deeply in love. While working at his loom, he would dream about the girl he loved. Inspired by these strong feelings and thoughts, he wove an unusually long piece of fabric and gave it to his beloved. The girl wrapped the beautiful cloth around herself, and according to the legend, this is how the first sari appeared.

Highly valued by experts and still very popular in the fashion world today, the sari gives women a distinctive elegance. These fabrics are known for their rich variety of colors.

In India, each color has its own special meaning and may indicate a woman’s social position, marital status and wealth.

Wearing a sari is not a simple task but a refined art that is learned from childhood. There are around fifteen different ways of wearing this traditional garment in India.

Interestingly, no fasteners or pins are traditionally used when wearing an authentic sari. First, a short, close-fitting garment called a “choli” is worn, followed by a specially made skirt, and finally the sari fabric is wrapped around the body in a distinctive manner.