The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c15.s1.52

c15.s1.52

The Deccan ladies seem to have borrowed this fashion from their sisters in Malava and Central India. The sculptures at Sanchi and Bharhut show that the *sakachchha* fashion was the order of the day in this part of India since early times. This becomes clear beyond all doubt from some of the bas-reliefs, where the back of women is visible, showing clearly the *kachchha* tucked up behind at the waist² (See Pl. VII). This central Indian fashion eventually spread to the Deccan. It had penetrated to South Behar also in the 2nd century B. C., as would appear from several sculptures found at Bodhagaya (*Ars Asiatica*, Vol. XVI, Pls. VI, XI, XIV, etc.). It did not, however, appeal to the women in Gujarat and Bihar, who continue to wear their *saris* in the old *vikachchha* fashion. In Maharashtra too, the *sakachchha* fashion was adopted only by the upper classes; women of the lower classes still continue to adhere to the old *vikachchha* fashion.