Varieties of Saris

by Jyotsna Kamat

First Online: April 28, 2005
Last Updated: February 17, 2024

In spite of its long length (five to six yards), the unsown drapery of sari is not cumbersome to working women. They can carry head-load, waist-load (child) and walk with ease. The pallu covers the head. One can walk fast and faster with transparent sari, the wind being naughty at times.

K.L.Kamat
The Bharatanatyam Dance
Sari of a Bharatanatyam Artist

Women of affluent class can fasten a golden belt and matching jewelry to keep the folds and pleats in tact. Whereas a poor woman though devoid of blouse is cautious enough to cover her feminine part securely . With both hands free she can work day-long in the fields.

K.L.Kamat
How to Build Houses While Wearing a Sari
Half-Saris Allow for Free Movements of Limbs

Sari worn like breeches, makes movement easy . In ancient times women fought battles riding horses, by folding and fastening the sari in this breech-like fashion.

K.L.Kamat
Waiting for the Bus
Saris Wrapped as Trousers

These days sewn saris are in vogue which help youngsters to flaunt this typical Indian dress on special occasions  with complete ease and allowing care-free times.

K.L.Kamat
Gramokkal Lady of Hebbar Hittal, 1987
Draping Style of Gramokkal Women
By tracing the border, one can learn the way the saree is wrapped

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