Sari (clothing) facts for kids
A sari (also spelled saree or shari) is a beautiful and traditional piece of clothing worn by women. It's like a very long strip of cloth, usually between 4.5 and 9 meters (about 15 to 30 feet) long. Women wrap this cloth around their body in many different ways. It is a very common daily outfit in countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It is even considered a national dress in India and Bangladesh. Some women in Pakistan also wear saris.
What is a Sari?
A sari is a single, unstitched piece of fabric. It is worn over a short blouse called a choli and a petticoat (a simple skirt). The way the sari is draped can change a lot. There are hundreds of ways to wear a sari, and each style often comes from a different region or tradition.
How to Wear a Sari
Wearing a sari might look tricky, but it's a skill passed down through generations.
- First, the petticoat is worn around the waist.
- Then, one end of the sari is tucked into the petticoat.
- The fabric is then wrapped around the lower body.
- Finally, the remaining part, called the pallu, is draped over the shoulder. The pallu can be styled in many ways, sometimes covering the head or left flowing freely.
History of the Sari
The sari has a very long history. People believe it has been worn for thousands of years. Ancient sculptures and paintings show women wearing similar draped garments. For example, a sculpture from the 2nd century AD shows a woman wearing a sari-like dress. Over time, the styles and fabrics used for saris have changed, but the basic idea remains the same.
Different Kinds of Saris
There are many types of saris, each with its own special look and feel. They can be made from different materials like silk, cotton, or synthetic fabrics. The patterns, colors, and borders often show where the sari comes from.
- Silk Saris: These are often worn for special events like weddings and festivals. Famous types include Kanchipuram silk from South India and Banarasi silk from North India.
- Cotton Saris: These are lighter and more comfortable for daily wear, especially in hot climates.
- Regional Styles: Each region has its unique way of draping and designing saris. For example, a Gujarati sari might be draped differently from a Bengali or Tamil sari.
Saris are not just clothes; they are an important part of culture and tradition. They show the rich history and diversity of the places where they are worn.
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