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India | Cultural and Literary Studies | Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025 | Pages: 5 - 17
From Archaeotextiles to Modern Drapes: A Chronological Journey Through Indian Costume and Textile Evolution
Abstract: This research endeavour provides a comprehensive chronological analysis of the evolution of costume and textiles in India, spanning from the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300 BCE) to the contemporary era. Drawing upon a diverse array of evidence, including archaeotextiles and archaeocostumes (derived from archaeological finds, sculptural depictions, and ancient paintings), alongside literary accounts, foreign chronicles, and modern archival data, the study traces the dynamic interplay of indigenous innovation, environmental adaptation, and significant foreign influences. It meticulously examines the transition from rudimentary draped garments and the pioneering use of cotton in ancient periods to the sophisticated textile artistry of the medieval empires, characterized by intricate weaves, diverse ornamentation, and the gradual integration of stitched forms. The impact of colonial policies on India's handloom industry and the subsequent emergence of hybrid Indo-Western styles are explored, leading into the post-independence era marked by a resurgence of traditional crafts and a globalized fashion landscape. This research highlights how textiles and costume in India have consistently functioned as profound expressions of cultural identity, economic prowess, and artistic excellence, adapting resiliently through millennia of change.
Keywords: Indian Costume, Indian Textiles, Archaeotextiles, Archaeocostumes, Harappan Civilization, Vedic Period, Mauryan Empire, Gupta Period, Medieval India, Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, Colonial India, Post-Independence Fashion, Sari, Dhoti, Fusion Wear
How to Cite?: Dr. Indira Malapaka, "From Archaeotextiles to Modern Drapes: A Chronological Journey Through Indian Costume and Textile Evolution", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 5-17, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25722173909, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25722173909