By Hemant SharmaWithout a single doubt, Rajasthan is one of the most culturally rich states in India, and the reason for that is not just the current culture and the way people have preserved it, well, it has to do with the rich history, architecture, festivals, cuisine, and handicrafts as well. Though, as you may already know, one way to preserve culture is to still dress up the traditional way, and to be honest, in Rajasthan, people still respect and wear their traditional dresses. So, let’s just talk about that, you know, the traditional dresses of Rajasthan for male and female. Here we go then.
Traditional Dress of Rajasthani Men
1. Angrakha
Angrakha denotes something like “body protector”. It is this kind of shirt made out of good old cotton. And it keeps one cool in the desert heat. By the way, this type of garment is made in two styles. Kamari Angrakha is short and frock-like. Long Angrakha is pretty long and it goes on to the waist. On big occasions like weddings, decorated Angrakhas are worn with cool stuff, such as designs and mirror work.
2. Bandhgala or Achkan
This jacket deserves the very royal description. And it is worn by many at weddings or big events. With closed necks and full sleeves, it just looks stunning, to be honest.
3. Kurta
If you’re an Indian citizen, you already know what a Kurta is, but still, just know that it is a long and flowing shirt. Very comfortable and often paired with pyjamas. You can find it in a cotton fabric for everyday wear or silk for days of big celebrations.
4. Dhoti
It is essentially one long piece of plain cotton cloth that is draped around the waist and legs to form a single ensemble for the purpose of keeping one cool and comfortable. Dhotis are most often available in light cotton and special borders are also added for big festivals.Pyjamas
Definitely very baggy trousers. Such comfortable wear, very easy to wear, you know, men wear it with kurtas or angrakhas.
5. Pagri or Safa (Turbans)
It’s just a piece of cloth you wrap around your head. Plain and simple! And show things like where you are from, your status, and even your mood or the occasion. Brightly colored, multi-colored turbans are generally for the elite. Ordinary people use plain turbans. Different cities have their own styles, though. Jaipur has angular ones. Udaipur has flat ones. Jodhpur has curved ones.
6. Footwear
They’re jootis or mojaris, made from really soft, crazy comfortable camel or goat leather, often highly fancy type, and worn by all, even women.
Traditional Dress of Rajasthani Women
1. Ghaghra
A ghaghra is an ankle-length skirt that is very wide. It has a lot of pleats, called kalis, which kinda gives it that perfection of flair, coupled with the richness of colours and patterns. It just nicely skirts up to the ankles to show off those feet and the coolest bangles anyone can imagine. Wear some Lahariya, Bandhani, Mothra, or Chunari print!
2. Choli / Kanchli / Kurti
These can be termed as the dress tops or blouses that go with the ghaghra. Mostly short and fitted, girls/women love to enhance their ghagras with wonderful work of mirrors, embroidery, beads, and the like. But the Kachli, which works a bulkier version of a choli, covers much more of your upper body.
3. Odhani / Chunari (Veil or Dupatta)
This long, sheer cloth women drape all over their shoulders and heads is about 2.5 meters long or longer. This accessory puts the final touch to their outfit, as it embodies respect for elders, shielding from the sun and dust, too.
4. Accessories for Women
To be honest, yes, it is true that Rajasthani women love wearing jewellery! Fancy women wear gold and stone types like Jadau sets, Aad chokers, and Rani Haar long necklaces. Village girls or tribal ones prefer silver or brass ornaments. And sure enough, there are many types or variations of these too, like, you have Rakhdi or Borla on your forehead, Nathani aka nose ring, Kaanbali or Surliya earrings, Bajubandh armlets, Kardhani waist chain, Payal anklets, and Bichua (which are toe rings). Apart from that, bangles of all colours are a must for married women!
5. Footwear
As far as the traditional footwear goes, well, both the ladies and gents have mojaris or jootis! Well, these are often the soft leather shoes with fancy hand embroidery and beadwork! Many shops in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer are dedicated to selling these cute shoes.