The functions and representations of sari

• As part of India's aesthetically rich and politically complex textile tradition, saris are abundantly endowed with "the social life of things" as well as participating in the language of clothes. The sari can serve simultaneously as a sign both of the nation and of Indian womanhood while its rich array of associations has made it a valuable focal point for a number of Indian writers, both when representing major political events and when portraying the complexities of personal relationships and family life. The saris most favoured by Indian women originate from three regions - Varanasi in northern Uttar Pradesh state, Chanderi in central Madhya Pradesh and Kancheevaram in southern Tamil Nadu.
• The sari was seen as a dress for all seasons - be it in the home or at the office, weddings or parties. The only differentiation was in the texture, fabric and the heavy embroidery. The sari is not under threat of extinction even though Indian women are wearing typical western clothing and Indian alternatives such as the salwar kameez (a long shirt worn with loose pants) and kurti (a short tunic).
• The sari certainly is a multi-purpose garment. It enhances the perfect figure and covers well the not so perfect ones. In fact the Indian woman’s figure seems to fit in so much better with the sari as compared to the straight spine of her western counterpart. The sari moulds itself in perfect understanding with the situational requirements, sometimes elegant, or practical, at other times sensual adapting itself and keeping attuned to the woman, at any point of time, in any mood or frame of mind. Draped over women across the centuries, the sari assumes a wide spectrum of meaning that is manifested in practically every single one of its turns and folds.
• This flowing fabric that can spin so many silent, yet vibrant, ways of being and communicating, is a wonder in itself. The sari has been known to wipe away many a tear, whether of a despairing child or of a heartbroken woman. For years it has kept secrets of the women who peeped from within its confines, whether in anticipation or in embarrassment. The sari has taken into its folds and stride centuries of lending support to women in time of grief, or while defending, for support and even protection. This goes on.
• A gently or a hastily pulled 'pallav’ (one end of the sari that goes across one shoulder to fall down the back, which differs in look as compared to the other end of sari.) could hide either a shameful blush or a face that is steeped in deceit. And the very expression of joy has not found a better representation than a vibrant, colorful sari pallav thrown to the winds. It is amazing how much the sari can speak or convey.