Uttarakhand have multiple diverse culture and traditions of multiple communities. The state specifically possesses Garhwali and Kumaoni culture which enriches the societal concepts of customs, celebrations and dances. The natural environment of the Himalayas, especially being a mountainous and cold region, is pleasant much for its demure people indeed. Starting from Char Dham pilgrimage to religious destinations to the adrenaline pumping adventure sports; Uttarakhand is a beautiful place that will definitely leave you enchanted.
Uttarakhand is located in the northern part of India, tucked in the neighbourhood of the Himalayas and its culture is well represented by the quality of its traditional dress. The climate of this state and its geographical structure have been the cause of its people’s clothing style and material selection. Here we explore Uttarakhand traditional dress for female and male.
Traditional Attire for Women
Uttarakhand traditional dress of female is not the same for all the regions of the state, but some essentials are the same. Uttarakhand traditional dress for female is ghagra-choli . The Ghagra is a long skirt that is sometimes accompanied by embroidered and bright colors to make a beautiful finishing. The Choli is a very tight fitting blouse that matches well with the Ghagra. Women also use a dupatta, a long piece of material that can be worn in a number of ways, for instance, worn over the head.
In the winter seasons especially in the cold regions of the state the women wear garments made of wool. The Pachowda is a common winter clothing, a long, woolen coat that warm’s them up during the cold winter season.
Traditional Attire for Men
The dress code for men of Uttarakhand is Dhoti-Kurta. The Dhoti is a long strip of cloth that is wrapped round the waist and legs and The Kurta is a long loose garment, high – necked shirt. This dresscode is convenient and appropriate for the climates of this area because of its versatility.
Eye-sore: Men up there are dressed in woolen cloth in order to evade the cold infected climate. The Pattu is frequently worn and it is a woolen shawl.
Regional Variations
- Kumaon Region: Kumaoni ladies prefer a Phaki or Angrakha a long, loose dress with lot of work on them. The traditional dress men of Kumaon is Dhoti-Kurta and for head Topi a woolen cap.
- Garhwal Region: Garhwali girl’s dress has two parts named Ghagra-Choli and an added Dupatta. The dress that Garhwal men prefers is Dhoti-kurta and they use Pagri, a turban.
- Jaunsari Region: The Jaunsari women dance in elaborate dress for winters – A Ghagra-Choli and Pachowda. The Dhoti-Kurta and the Topi are the men’s wear.
Influence of Modernity
However, with time, contemporary fashion cannot be by passed in the clothes that are now traditional to the people of Uttarakhand. In present day, people of the Uttarakhand, particularly the inhabitants of the urban areas design their houses with the traditional touch but it complements modern trend. For women it may be a salwar kameez or even western style dress and for men; jeans and shirts are common.
But, they are still used during ceremonials, festivals and the other cultural functions and events. It tries to convey the cultural background and the demographic bailiwick of Uttarakhand with special focus on the Indian region.
