As I drive around the lanes of Parel, Lower Parel, Dadar, etc., I pass by lots of areas, that are very typically representing the real middle class of the city. Those households where the earning member is perhaps a diploma engineer working in a textile mill, or a clerk, or a junior executive. Perhaps an average income of Rs. 5000 to Rs. 20000 per month. With kids, elders, etc. all staying together, in small sized flats or chawls.
What I have noticed over the years, is the one common piece of garment that the women wear, most of the time. One would expect this garment to be a sari or a salwar kameez. But indeed, its neither of these two.
What I have seen is that women typically wear what can be described as a nightie or a kaftan. A one-piece cotton garment, that is both sober, as well as cheap, easy to maintain, easy to wear, very comfortable. I would suspect that readymade versions of these may be starting at Rs. 40-Rs. 70 range. Its an amazingly popular piece of garment, and I have been stunned to see its universal appeal in these environs.
An observation so strong that I felt it worthwhile to share it here!
Random Musings 
But it is quite embarrassing for me to see ladies wear such things in the Silicon Valley on their “walks” in the evenings!
I know. When I saw these ladies earlier, I was also embarrassed. I associated these dresses with night wear, the kind that is worn in the comfort of your bedrooms. And then suddenly you see so many of these ladies, in such dresses, walking around the streets, shopping for bananas on the cart, with a comb in a hand, etc. I have got used to these now.. !