In modern usage, a short kurta is referred to as the kurti. However, traditionally, the term kurti refers to waist coats,[1] jackets and blouses[2] which sit above the waist without side slits, and are believed to have descended from the tunic of the Shunga period (2nd century B.C.).[3] The kurti is distinguished from the choli by the latter leaving the midriff exposed.
