Question

The accounts of classical Greek and Roman geographers and historians have some useful information on Indian textiles and dress styles.
They cover their persons down to the feet with fine muslin, are shod with sandals and coil round their heads clothes of linen (cotton). They hang precious stones as pendants from their ears and persons of high social rank or of great wealth, deck their wrist and upper arm with bracelets of gold.
Based on this textual material — What can we infer about Indian dressing? Draw a comparison with today’s sense of dressing.

Hint:

Indian dressing has always reflected a blend of comfort, elegance, and identity—whether in ancient muslin robes or modern sarees and suits.

Answer 1

The Greek and Roman observations highlight the elegance, richness, and cultural identity reflected in ancient Indian attire. From this description, we can infer the following about Indian dressing traditions:
Use of fine fabrics: Indians were known for using delicate textiles like muslin and linen, indicating advanced textile craftsmanship and a preference for comfort in warm climates.
Full-body coverage: Traditional garments like long muslin robes covered the body fully, reflecting modesty and climate-responsive clothing choices.
Adornment and jewelry: The use of earrings, gold bracelets, and other ornaments signifies both aesthetic appreciation and social status markers.
Head covering with cloth: Turbans or coiled cloths served not only cultural and religious roles but were also practical in protecting from heat and dust.
Comparison with Today’s Dressing:

Diversity of style: Modern Indian dressing is highly diverse—ranging from traditional (sarees, kurta-pajamas) to western (jeans, shirts). The ancient focus on modest, elegant attire still persists in many regions and ceremonies.
Fabric choices: While modern clothing includes synthetic fabrics, traditional natural fabrics like cotton and silk are still highly valued for comfort and festivals.
Jewelry as identity: Just like in ancient times, jewelry remains a symbol of tradition, wealth, and identity—especially in weddings and formal occasions.
Functional fashion: Today's fashion is more function-oriented (weather, activity-based), but the blend of style and cultural heritage remains rooted in historical influence.
Thus, ancient Indian dressing as observed by foreign travelers was not only sophisticated but also closely linked to social and environmental contexts—a trait that continues in modern fashion with adaptations and innovations.