What term describes the Indian tradition where women cover their faces in public?

The term that describes the Indian tradition where women cover their faces in public is "purdah." This practice involves the seclusion of women from public observation, which can include covering their faces with a veil or staying indoors. Purdah is often associated with certain cultural and religious practices within various communities in India and is rooted in ideas of modesty and social norms regarding gender roles.

In contrast to purdah, the burqa is a full-body covering that includes a mesh screen for the face, predominantly associated with certain Islamic cultures, particularly in Afghanistan. The hijab refers to a headscarf worn by many Muslim women to maintain modesty; it does not specifically imply facial covering. A sari is a traditional garment worn by women in India but does not pertain to the practice of face covering or seclusion. Thus, purdah is the correct term for the context of Indian tradition regarding women covering their faces in public.