The sari is a large piece of unstitched cloth. It is usually 6 to 9 metres in length. The origin of the sari can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation. Many figurines and statues from that period showcase a long piece of cloth draped around a woman’s body.

The word ‘sari’ may originate from ‘sattika’. The word first finds mention in some Buddhist and Jain texts. The ‘sattika’ is described to involve three pieces; one as a lower garment, one as a veil that is draped over the shoulder or head and the third as a chest band. Prior to the arrival of the British, the practice of wearing a garment that covered the chest was only common in Northern India. After their arrival, the wearing of a chest band or blouse became a widespread phenomena. This was because of the spread of Victorian beliefs about the modesty and dignity of women.

There are over 80 popular styles of wearing the sari. The most common style is that of a sari tucked into a petticoat, with the ‘pallu’ or tail on the sari draped over the shoulder. This style is said to have been adapted to suit British sensibilities. Across the Indian subcontinent, the sari takes on different forms, lengths, styles and drapes.