The Magic of Sarees

A Childhood Woven in Sarees

As far back in the recesses of memory as I can remember, sarees have been a deeply integrated part of my life. Like any other Indian child growing up in the 80s and 90s, I was surrounded by women of all ages wearing sarees in different hues, prints, and textures. Wearing a saree was a mark of being treated as an adult — and therefore, with respect.

Another observation I recall is that one wore different sarees for different occasions. For example, a cool cotton saree would be perfect for long summer afternoons, a silk or chiffon saree would be ideal for a date, a traditional saree would be just right for a puja at home, and a heavily embellished zari saree was perfect for weddings and other grand functions.

Different seasons, too, called for different fabrics — silk, kosa, and tussar for winters; georgettes for monsoons; and likewise, cotton for summers. It was almost as if each fabric carried its own season in its folds.

Family Traditions and First Sarees

Growing up in a house full of girls, we often heard stories about how my mother had ordered two Kanjeevaram silk sarees for her wedding ceremonies from Chennai (then Madras), with the help of her neighbours who were originally from Tamil Nadu. Kanjeevaram sarees were considered exquisite and an excellent choice for marriage rituals — a symbol of elegance and auspiciousness.

As I grew up and came of age, I vividly remember the first saree my father bought me — an ethereal ivory organza saree with sequined work all over, suitable for a princess. I truly felt like one on the days I wore it with pride.

From my first salary, I bought a beautiful nine-yard Induri saree for my grandmother in a stunning peacock shade, complete with a traditional rui-phool border. My mother gifted me a moss-coloured Maheshwari saree and a multi-hued tussar saree.

I loved draping different kinds of sarees and gradually began to understand the diversity of styles and weaves that were prevalent at the time.

The Saree as Ritual and Identity

When we were shopping for sarees for my own marriage, I read up on the different rituals and their significance, and chose my sarees accordingly.

A bright red shalu (bridal saree) was the one in which I got married, while a bottle-green silk was chosen for the post-wedding ceremony. Each saree carried meaning — a language of tradition and personal identity.

This passion for selecting the right saree for each occasion and season has now become a part of my DNA.

“Every ritual had a saree. Every saree had a story.”

The Saree’s Evolution: From Film Glamour to Power Dressing

Over time, the film industry played a big role in defining sarees as symbols of beauty and sex appeal. Think of iconic Bollywood moments — the saree became a visual shorthand for allure and grace.

Later came the corporatization of sarees — women began wearing sarees that made powerful professional statements. We saw a phase where blouses with different silhouettes came into vogue, sometimes taking the spotlight away from the saree itself.

Gradually, sarees have been making a comeback — and oh, what a comeback it has been!

A Timeless Revival

Today, we see all kinds of sarees — made on handlooms and power looms, adorned with artisanal embellishments, showcasing unique weaving patterns and striking colour combinations.

There are people who will help drape a saree for a bride, and others who will expertly drape one for Cannes. The saree has adapted, evolved, and reasserted itself — without ever losing its soul.

The Six Yards That Endure

The six-yard saree has undergone many changes over the years and still remains that one timeless length of fabric which evokes multiple feelings in the hearts of both wearers and onlookers alike.

It signifies elegance, grace, beauty, strength, and a feminine aura that remains unparalleled. Whether passed down through generations or chosen fresh from a loom, a saree carries within it a story — of people, places, and the passage of time.

“The saree is not just attire. It is memory, artistry, and identity — all wrapped in six yards.”