Today as Indians everywhere, even those who do not practice Hinduism still celebrate the festival of lights and sari will be out in all sumptuous colours and patterns.
But one of the oldest garments in the world it is depicted in artefacts that date back to 100 BC is also inspiring the most current looks in fashion capitals.
The rise of Indian-inspired fashion can be traced to the success of Indian fashion designers in the global stage. Both the rise of India as an economic power and the popularity of Bollywood movies have also earned Indian fashion cachet with the designers and celebrities.
With the influx of Inidan expatriates in recent years, Singapore has also seen more events that offer Indian fashion. Even non-Indian shoppers now want hints of Indian design on contemporary clothing.
Sari means strip of cloth in Sanskrik but it also refers to the entire outfit, including the blouse and underskirt. Strictly speaking the sari is a piece of seamless cloth wrapped around the waist, with one end draped over the shoulder.
Saris feature multitude of decorations: woven, printed, embossed with velvet, embellished with sequins and in Sari (embroidered in gold colour fibre) and Bandhani (tie-dye) designs.
Choli is a tight-fitting sleeveless or short sleeved blouse that comes in variety of necklines. It is typically made of cotton or silk and the colour usually matches that of the sari.
Women who are more conservative usually go for designs that cover their front and back fully. There are also backless and halter-neck styles.
Petticoat, this waist to floor cotton or polyester slip-worn under the sari is tied tightly at the waist by a draw-string and holds the sari in place as it has to be tucked into this underskirt. It should not be visible and should match the base sari colour as closely as possible.
Pallu is the end portion of the sari which is draped, usually on the left shoulder and falls till about knee level. It can also be tucked in at the waist or used to cover the head or the neck. It is often intricately decorated.
Wish every Hindu a "Happy Deepavali".
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