The history and evolution of saree

The origin of a saree-like drapery can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation which flourished around the north-western part of the Indian subcontinent. According to historians and anthropologists, there are more than 80 ways of draping a saree. Fabrics used for making them are also wide-ranging, the most common being cotton, silk, polyester, georgette and charmuese. In terms of style and patterns, the variety is even more mind-boggling. While Banarasi and Kanchipuram are among the most sought-after brocade silk sarees, Bandhani and Kota are popular block-print versions. Embroidery is a popular pattern for sarees, gota patti being the most commonly-used version.