Cosmetics, Costumes and Ornaments in Ancient India

by Remadevi. O. | 2009 | 54,177 words

This page relates ‘Upper Garments (e): Kurpasaka (stitched garment)’ of the study on cosmetics, costumes and ornaments of ancient India based on Sanskrit sources. Chapter one deals with cosmetics and methods of enhancing beauty; Chapter two deals with costumes, garments and dresses; Chapter three deals with ornaments for humans and animals. Each chapter deals with their respective materials, types, preparation and trade, as prevalent in ancient Indian society.

2.1. Upper Garments (e): Kūrpāsaka (stitched garment)

Kūrpāsaka was a stitched garment worn by both gents and ladies. Kūrpāsaka of men was like a mantle, covering the upper body up to waist, while Kūrpāsaka worn by ladies was not so large. From Kālidāsa’s description we learn that it was similar to Stanāṃśuka[1], while in one context, Kālidāsa[2] attests women wearing Kūrpāsaka in winter. From this it is evident that use of long Kūrpāsaka was popular among ladies also. Rājaśekhara[3] mentions it as a dress similar to the modern blouse. Amarakośa[4] gives Cola as a synonym of Kūrpāsaka. Bāṇa[5] has referred to Kūrpāsaka of several colours. Kūrpāsaka was also known by the name Kuppāsa.

Footnotes and references:

[1]:

IIK, p.200

[2]:

Ṛtusaṃhāra, IV.16;V.8

[3]:

Karpūramañjarī, I.13

[4]:

2.6.118

[5]:

NTAIS, p.59; ICCO, p.25

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