Saree – Symbol of Indian Tradition
India is a country of many ethnic groups, dialects, regional variations, modes of apparel and numerous mannerisms. Indian culture has stood the test of time by remaining diverse, colorful, sensual and spiritual, and the combination of rich traditions and family unity within religious faith makes India, well, India. From one state to another, there is so much variation in the language, attire, beliefs and other demographic aspects of the denizens that it is simply incredible. Although there are variations in practices based on local needs and influences, there is an underlying basic factor keeping the whole of India together, which is our rich ‘Tradition’. Further, the greatness of India has been in accepting the best from all the invaders and intermingling the new customs and styles with the existing aspects like music, painting, dance, sculptures, architecture and textiles. Due to the short life of the textiles, the only evidences are in the paintings, sculpture and inscriptions, if any. In the history of Indian clothing the saree is traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished during 2800-1800 BC around the western part of the Indian subcontinent.
The traditional saree is more than just clothing. There was significant meaning and symbolism attached to the garment in the form of different colors or designs. The various patterns and colors of the saree depicted beliefs, virtues, and the region the person came from. A traditional saree had numerous designs and symbols used on it. The Paisley and Fish were used to show fertility. They also represented the abundance of food and children. These patterns were mostly seen in the coastal regions where the people survived on fish. Designs in the form of an Elephant symbolized water, fertility, wealth and good luck. It also exemplifies Lord Ganesha who is the remover of obstacles. The Conch was also a symbol of the Gods and represented the bugle used in war. The use of colors in the saree has also had specific meaning behind them. Red, used in the traditional sense is associated with the warrior and a sign of valor. However, today it is worn by Indian brides and is a favored color by many, because of the sexual and emotional implications attached to it. White was usually associated with priests because it is believed to be impure to change the saree by use of color or stitching. White is also a symbol of purity and mourning, therefore widows were known to wear the white saree. The color black was used to show sorrow or bad luck. It was probably for this reason that very few sarees were made of black. In contrast, there were many sarees made of blue because of the association to the working class. Farmers, weavers and manual laborers were said to have worn blue.
When it comes to fashion, designer sarees have taken a sweet spot in women’s wardrobe. Though the dress is considered to be one of the most impractical one to ever be worn, the fragility the designer saree portrays on the wearer has indulged women to wear it frequently.
The Indian Saree has been a subject of great inspiration and appreciation for worldwide costume connoisseurs. Here we would fathom its historical continuance, record its traditions which goes from generation to generation and unveil the intricacies which go towards the making of a saree and its art and aesthetics. The history of the Indian saree is full of tradition, pride, and innovation. It represents the culture of India and symbolizes her way of life. The many ways that the saree is worn says much of its versatility and durability. Today, the wearing of the saree is a representation of the civilization of those before us.
indian saree
