Jul 27, 2023
The saree was a long, single piece of cloth that was draped around the body without any blouse or petticoat underneath. The saree was adapted to the hot and humid climate of Bengal and other regions of India.
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The British colonisers viewed the Indians as barbaric and exotic, and mocked their clothing and customs. The British portrayed the saree as indecent and immodest, and banned Indian women from clubs and public spaces for wearing it.
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To conform to the colonial norms, some Indian women started wearing blouses and petticoats under their sarees, covering their chests and waists. The blouse and petticoat were seen as symbols of modernity and civilization, as well as respectability and status.
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Indian nationalists opposed blouse and petticoat, viewing it as a swadeshi movement betrayal. They accused wearers of immorality, ridiculing and shaming them through poems and songs. Charges of being foreign, naked, and shameless were hurled.
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The media played a significant role in shaping the public perception of the saree and its wearers. Some magazines and cartoons depicted the women who wore blouses and petticoats as bad housewives, who neglected their domestic duties and indulged in frivolous activities.
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The saree's media portrayal was shaped by the social class of the wearers. Elite women faced criticism or admiration for their expensive fabric choices, while poor women's saree choices were often overlooked or exploited due to limited resources.
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Saree, a diverse and dynamic garment, differed across regions, communities, religions, and castes. It mirrored India's local traditions, beliefs, and aesthetics, while also embracing influences from Persia, China, Europe, etc., leading to new styles and forms.
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Post-independence, the saree evolved with India's changing times and contexts. It symbolised national identity, cultural heritage, and pride. Designers, artists, and activists used it as a medium for expression and innovation, exploring new fabrics, motifs, and techniques.
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The saree went global, gaining admiration worldwide. Celebrities, politicians, and diplomats flaunted its elegance. Diaspora communities embraced it, fostering connections to their heritage and celebrating identities.
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The saree today is multifaceted, adaptable to various occasions, moods, and purposes. It reflects wearers' unique preferences, personalities, and tastes. Moreover, it boldly challenges society's stereotypes, norms, and expectations.
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