Understanding The Importance of Saree In Indian Culture

You could see a woman wearing a saree anywhere in the world and instantly know that she’s an Indian. Sarees are worn by women of all ages and can be draped in hundreds of different ways but no matter how you drape a saree, it’s easily identifiable as an Indian outfit. It would be extremely difficult to put a date to when sarees were first worn. They find a mention even in the vedas. That’s why it is essential to understand the importance of saree in Indian culture.

Every Part Of India Has A Unique Saree Drape

It’s amazing how many different ways 5 meters of fabric can be draped. Each state and sometimes regions within a state have a unique drape. Sarees also vary in terms of fabric, weaves, patterns and embellishments. While the south is known for it’s Kanjeevaram silks, Kashmir is known for its embroidered crepes. Though the saree is seen as an Indian drape the different drapes help identify the part of India the woman wearing the saree belongs.

Sarees Are Comfortable

When you study the importance of saree in Indian culture, you’ll find that it is probably the most comfortable outfit suited to Indian weather. Yes, getting used to draping it might take a little effort but once you’ve gotten the hang of it, you’ll find that sarees are very comfortable. The pleated style skirt keeps you cool. In winters when the weather turns chilly, wrapping the pallu around the shoulders will keep you warm. The outfit is comfortable to work in too – so comfortable that women have been known to work in the fields while wearing a saree.

Sarees Suit All Occasions

There’s no occasion where a saree would be out of place. It’s equally suitable to a day at home as well as one in the office. You can wear a saree to brunch as well as to a red carpet event. Many Indian cultural ambassadors have flaunted a saree at international events. Sarees can also be worn throughout the year during the hottest part of summers as well as the coldest day in winter. This versatility makes it a special outfit.

Sarees Are Family Heirlooms

Many women have emotional connections to their favourite sarees. These aren’t sarees they’ve bought in a retail store but sarees they have inherited from their mothers and grandmothers. Some of these sarees are drapes that are no longer even available in the market. There are silk sarees woven with pure gold, soft crepes embroidered with the finest threads and more. Sarees are often worn at Indian weddings and many women choose their mother’s saree to wear for the wedding.

No matter how modern we may become in our outlook, no matter where we live, you can’t lose touch with your roots and culture. Every woman should understand the importance of saree in Indian culture. Whether you wear the outfit every day or just for special occasions, knowing its significance tells you the message you are sending out to the world. The message that you are a proud Indian woman.

Since her journey that began 28 years ago as an educator at a university level, Sangeet Relan has come a long way. She is an avid reader and loves to cook, sing and travel new places.