Antariya: Garment of the Mauryan Period

The question asks about the nature of the antariya, a garment worn during the Mauryan period in ancient India.

Understanding the Antariya

Historical and archaeological evidence suggests that clothing in the Mauryan period was diverse. The antariya specifically refers to a lower garment, essentially a type of loincloth or dhoti.

Analyzing the Options for Antariya Description

Let's examine the characteristics of the antariya based on the options provided:

• Option 1: an unstitched length of cloth draped around the body. While unstitched garments like dhotis were common, the description of the antariya often includes specific construction methods.
• Option 2: a sewn garment consisting of a sleeved tunic. This describes an upper garment (like a kurta or tunic), not the antariya which was a lower body garment.
• Option 3: a head covering used exclusively by women. This describes headwear (like a veil or turban), which is distinct from the antariya.
• Option 4: made of strips sewn together tied at the waist with a cord. This aligns with descriptions of the antariya. It was often constructed from multiple pieces of fabric sewn together and secured around the waist, sometimes with a cord or belt (kayabandha).

Conclusion on Antariya's Form

Based on historical context and the options, the most accurate description of the antariya during the Mauryan period is that it was a garment constructed from sewn strips and secured at the waist.

Key characteristics of the antariya:

• It was a lower garment.
• Often made by sewing together strips of cloth.
• Fastened around the waist, sometimes using a cord.
• Worn during the Mauryan period and earlier.