The Mythological Significance of Saree: Legends Woven in Threads
The saree, beyond its aesthetic charm, holds deep mythological significance in Indian culture. It has been revered not just as a garment but as a symbol of divine grace and cultural heritage, with stories woven into its very fabric.
One of the most prominent mythological tales associated with the saree is from the epic Mahabharata. The episode of Draupadi’s Vastraharan is a powerful story where Lord Krishna miraculously extends Draupadi’s saree, protecting her dignity when she is disrobed in the Kaurava court. This event symbolizes the saree as a shield of honor and divine protection, and it emphasizes the profound connection between the saree and the divine.
In another legend, the goddess Lakshmi, often depicted draped in a resplendent saree, represents prosperity and abundance. The saree in this context symbolizes the goddess’s blessings, embodying wealth and fertility. Similarly, Sita, from the Ramayana, is often portrayed wearing a simple yet elegant saree, reflecting her purity, strength, and devotion.
The saree also holds a sacred place in the worship of goddesses in various regional traditions. For instance, during the festival of Navratri, sarees are offered to deities as a symbol of reverence, and it is believed that dressing the goddess in a saree invites her blessings upon the household.
In the Bhagavata Purana, there is the story of Lord Vishnu transforming into the enchanting Mohini to retrieve the Amrit (nectar of immortality). Mohini’s attire, often described as a beautiful saree, is a symbol of divine illusion and power, highlighting the saree’s association with mystical allure.
These mythological references showcase the saree as more than just a piece of clothing; it is a garment imbued with divine significance, embodying virtues such as purity, protection, honor, and grace across different cultures and epics in Indian mythology.