By Hemant SharmaWhen you think about Assam, the first thing it comes to mind are lush tea gardens, the mighty Brahmaputra River, and the vibrant Bihu festival. But do you know what truly reflects the culture of Assam? Their traditional clothes! Just like every part of India has its unique style Assam too has beautiful and meaningful traditional outfits for both men and women. These clothes are not just about fashion but they tell stories about the beautiful land. So now let’s take a closer look about Traditional Dress of Assam or you can say Costumes for Men & Women.
Traditional Dress for Men in Assam
1. Dhoti and kurta
The traditional costumes for men in Assam are Dhoti and Kurta. The dhoti is a rectangular piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and legs. Kurta is a loose fitting shirt that extends to the knees. This combination is commonly worn during festivals, ceremonies and formal occasions.
2. Suriya and chadar
In some regions men wear Suriya, which is similar to a Dhoti but often features intricate designs and patterns. Accompanying the Surya is the Chadar which is a type of shawl draped over the shoulder adding both elegance and warmth.
3. Gamusa
An integral part of Assamese culture the gamusa is a white rectangular piece of cloth with red borders and motifs. It holds cultural value and is used as a towel, a mark of respect or a festive decoration during Bihu. Men often drape it around the neck or tie it around the head during traditional dances.
Traditional Dress for Women in Assam
1. Mekhela Chador
The main traditional dress worn by Assamese women is the Mekhela Chador. It has two parts, one is Mekhela which is a skirt worn from the waist and the Chador which is draped over the upper body. The Mekhela is pleated and tucked in while the chador is wrapped around the torso and over the shoulder, similar to a saree.
2. Riha
The Riha is another piece often worn under the chador mainly by brides or during special occasions. It adds layers and intricacy to the outfit showcasing the richness of Assamese weaving traditions.
3. Fabrics and Designs
Assamese traditional costumes are renowned for its exquisite handwoven fabrics. Muga silk is known for its natural golden sheen and exclusive to Assam. It is used in mekhela chadors for weddings and formal events. Eri silk which is also called “peace silk” is very soft and warm suitable for cooler climates. Pat silk is another variety known for its glossy texture and durability.
Designs often feature motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, birds, and geometric patterns. These are woven using traditional techniques passed down through generations. It reflects the state’s rich artistic heritage.
Jewelry and Accessories
Now let’s talk about jewelry. It is absolute stunning! Traditional Assamese like junbiri, lokaparo and gamkharu is made of gold and has very detailed design. These pieces looks very pretty and also carry very deep cultural meaning.
In Assam traditional attire in Assam is more than just clothing. It is a way of celebrating who they are. During festivals like Bihu people wear their traditional outfits to perform dances, sing songs and celebrate their heritage. Wearing these clothes brings people together and helps keep Assam’s tradition alive.
Conclusion
The traditional dress of Assam is a vibrant mix of history, culture and artistry. While traditional attire remains integral to cultural celebration, modern adaptations have emerged.