No discussion on Indian ornamentation would be complete without mention of the saree. An ever-present traditional symbol, the saree has withstood the test of time and cultural invasions and the most feared influence of all, the Westernization on Indian youth. The saree is alive and well draped around the waists of many young women.

Aanchal Clasilks, located on M.G. Road is one of the favorite saree shops in Bangalore. Aanchal has a wide range of exquisite sarees - Kancheevarams & Benarsis, Valkalams, Mysore Silks, embroidered silks, hand painted designer sarees, Tanchois, Brocades and bridal wear. Cora silks and summer crepes, printed and plain silks and cotton drapes are some of their collections. They have beautiful dress materials in silk too.

"Some ladies prefer the starched and elegant cotton saree, but there are varieties of materials that the saree is woven of. The most famous of all is the silk saree. Worn on special occasions, it is usually a thick Kanchipuram silk saree or a Benarasi one, the outstanding feature of this gorgeous piece of creation is the silken tassels and the intricate gold embroidery bordering called the Zari, this embroidery sometimes extends to the pallu, covering it in pure golden threads", says Mr. Faizal Seith, owner of Aanchal Clasilks.

India is united on the saree couture, but just like the rest of its traditions, there are sub-traditions and different ways to interpret a particular custom or dress. In Northern India, the state of Gujarat has given rise to the classic North Indian style of wearing a saree. It is simple enough. In the South the pallu is worn on the left shoulder while in Gujarat it is draped on the right. In Kerala, a Southern state, the saree is split into two parts: a long straight skirt and a smaller piece called the mundu to put across the shoulder.

Inthe Western state of Maharashtra, one can find the navavari; this is a particularly revealing way of wearing the saree, where, though the body is completely covered, the saree is slipped between the legs and tightened at the back called navavari.

Aanchal is recognized among the upper middle class and NRIs, for their collection of sarees from various parts of India. The prices range from as low as Rs 200 to Rs 20,000.

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