Manipur is one of the states in the northeastern region of India and prized for its colorfully diverse cultural practices and dressing styles. This is so because the state is a combination of Hindu and Meitei cultures which differ from most other states in India leaving Manipuri dress code out from traditional indian dress code. Here we explore about Manipuri traditional dress female and male.
Traditional Attire for Women
- Phanek:
The Phanek is the most emblematic part of the Manipuri traditional dress female. The men’s dress code is really loose with exotic appearance with long unstitched cloth that goes around the waist and it is neatly tucked with proper dressing.
The simple or complex design of the Phanek’s fabric can either be original or contain the conventional patterns of flowers, birds, and geometrical shapes.
The way that Phanek is draped also differs based on the length of it besides depending on the occasion for the event and the status of the women.
- Irai:
The Irai is the long, rectangular shawl that is worn on the shoulder or head. It carrirs or may have embroidery, or very exquisite designs.
It is used by the Irai, to enhance the elegance and the sophistication, which are characteristic of the Phanek.
- Potloi:
Potloi is a Manipuri head dress. The ‘Toubo’ is a long, rectangular piece of cloth that worn round the head in diverse ways.
This can be plain or it may be made of embroidered and this is one of the remarkable Potloi designs.
Traditional Attire for Men
- Dhoti:
* Most commonly the Dhoti is a material that is worn around the waist and the lower part of the legs.
It is one type of dress that men in many of the regions of India, including Manipur, commonly use.
The Dhoti can be purchased plain or patterned and can be worn with a shirt or kurta.
- Chadar:
The Chadar is a piece of garment that is long rectangular patterned Shawl that can be worn either across the shoulders or over the head. It’s usually also made of some form of cloth like silk or cotton.
Padded ones are simple while the embroidered ones can have simple traditional designs on them known as the Chadar.
- Angocha:
* The Angocha is a narrow piece of cloth in rectangle form which is used to wipe the face or hands.
It might also be worn around the head like a cap or on the neck like a shawl.
The Angocha is may be made from cotton or silk but may also be like plain material or may contain prints.
Manipuri traditional dress female and male are indeed much more than ordinary clothes; it is identity of the state reflecting its history. Manipuri dress has its own style statement of being very elaborate in its design, high in colour and globally influencing designs. In continuing to present indigenous Manipuri dressing and fashion, Manipur can still patronize its cultural heritage and encourage the young generations.
