Consider the following statements about the costumes and headgear/hairstyle in India during 4th – 7th century AD: 1. There was a marked preference for stitched garment as compared to any previous age 2. Simple plaits without any floral embellishment dominated the hairstyle of women Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

During the Gupta-Vakataka period (4th–7th century AD), there was a marked preference for stitched garments compared to any previous age. While unstitched clothing like the dhoti and uttariya remained common, the influence of the Kushans led to the widespread adoption of stitched tunics, coats, and trousers, particularly among royalty and the elite [1]. Statement 1 is therefore correct. Regarding statement 2, the period was characterized by highly elaborate and artistic hairstyles rather than simple plaits. Women's hair was often arranged in intricate curls, top knots, or loops, and was frequently embellished with jewels, flower wreaths, and floral garlands. The Ajanta paintings and contemporary sculptures depict a vast variety of sophisticated coiffures, contradicting the claim of simple, unembellished plaits. Thus, statement 2 is incorrect.

Sources

1. [1] http://indianculture.gov.in/timeless-trends/history-clothing-ancient-india