A traditional Indian garment consisting of a long piece of cloth draped around the body, typically worn by women. It is usually 5-9 yards long and worn with a fitted blouse and petticoat.
From Hindi साड़ी (sāṛī) and Sanskrit शाटी (śāṭī) meaning 'strip of cloth'. The word entered English in the late 18th century through British colonial documentation of Indian dress customs. Early spellings included 'saree' which remains an alternative form.
The sari is considered one of the world's oldest surviving garments, with depictions dating back 5,000 years! Despite British attempts to promote Western dress, the sari became a symbol of Indian independence and cultural pride during the freedom movement.
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