Why do Indian people wear native costumes in the United States? Is this part of their religion (like the Muslim head coverings that Islamic women wear), or just a cultural preference?

Some of it is cultural -- as the beautiful saris that some women wear. Sikhs, though wear turbans primarily for religious reasons.

http://fateh.sikhnet.com/s/WhyTurbans

Indian people wearing native costumes in the United States can be attributed to a combination of cultural preference and individual choice rather than a religious obligation like the Muslim head coverings. It is important to note that India is a diverse country with a multitude of cultures, traditions, and ethnicities.

1. Cultural Representation: Many individuals from Indian descent choose to wear traditional attire or costumes to represent their culture and heritage. Wearing native costumes can be a way to celebrate and showcase the rich diversity of Indian cultures and traditions.

2. Festivals and Special Occasions: Indian festivals are vibrant and colorful, often involving traditional clothing. During these festivals celebrated in the United States, individuals may opt to wear native attire as a way to partake in the festivities and maintain a connection to their cultural roots.

3. Weddings and Celebrations: Traditional Indian clothing, such as sarees for women and kurta-pajama or sherwani for men, is commonly worn during weddings and other celebratory occasions. Indian immigrants in the United States may choose to embrace their cultural practices by wearing these outfits.

4. Personal Preference: Some individuals simply have a personal preference for wearing traditional Indian attire as a part of their everyday fashion choices. Just like people from any culture or ethnicity, personal style and fashion choices can vary among individuals from Indian descent.

It is crucial to understand that each individual's motivations for wearing native costumes may differ. Therefore, it is always advisable to approach people with respect and understanding to learn more about their choices and experiences.