From the Vedic era to the present day, Indians have used the uttariya (a traditional upper garment or cloth) with deep respect and significance. In the Vedic period, sages used to wear a special piece of cloth along with a dhoti. This cloth played a vital role in their spiritual practices.

In the post-Vedic era, the use of uttariya transformed into namabali (a ceremonial cloth with inscriptions) and also began to be used as a token of honor when offered to individuals as a mark of respect.