In the middle of the country, Chhattisgarh is very famous for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and diversified human races. The traditional wear of Chhattisgarh showcases cultural diversity and historical tradition in dressing since every outfit symbolizes the intelligence and creativity of its citizens. Right from the detailed patterns of the Pudia to the resplendent colors of the Saree, it is symbolic of the soul of its people. Now, we shall peep into the fashion of dressing for both male and female of Chhattisgarh, with respective distinguishing features and what makes them culturally different.
Chhattisgarh Men’s Traditional Dress:
The traditional men’s dress of Chhattisgarh shows the region to be agrarian; the dresses are conceptualized to be utilitarian in a rustic backdrop. The men’s dressing is related to tradition and culture and comes with unique clothing and accessories that form the social identity and customs of the region. Some of the most common constituents of men’s traditional attire in Chhattisgarh are:
1. Dhoti:
The Dhoti is a quintessential lower garment worn by men in Chhattisgarh. It is actually a big rectangular piece of cloth which is wrapped round the waist, then round the legs, so as to give them comfort and free movement, mainly in a torrid and humid climate of the region. They are composed of cotton fabric and are available in different colors and designs. It is usually teamed with a Kurta or a shirt to complete the traditional look.
2. Kurta:
It is the long tunic-like outfit meant for the male fraternity, used as an upper garment in Chhattisgarh. It is generally made of cotton or silk cloth with the least embroidery or sometimes just a few designs on the collar, cuffs, and front placket area. Most of the time, the Kurta is available in neutral shades to the most striking coloration, which normally imbibes the fashion statement of the wearer and the occasion as well. It is commonly paired with a dhoti or a pair of trousers to form an ensemble.
3. Pudia:
It’s a kind of traditional men’s headgear in Chhattisgarh and quite famous in rural areas. It’s a piece of cloth, something like a turban, tied around the head to cover it from the sun and dust. Generally, Pudias are prepared from cotton or silk cloth and are available in different colors and designs. It is a dignified and respectable cultural identity of the traditional male costume of Chhattisgarh.
Chhattisgarh Traditional Dress in Women:
Women’s traditional attire in Chhattisgarh is highlighted with vibrant color, intricate embroidery, and graceful drapes, which speak volumes about the diversity and finesse in the art of the region. Rooted deeply in tradition and customs, these dresses for women incorporate distinctive clothes and accessories symbolizing femininity, elegance, and cultural identity. Here is the list of the key components of the traditional dress for women in Chhattisgarh:
1. Saree:
This is the iconic traditional dress of women in Chhattisgarh. This is a single piece of long cloth, usually from six to nine yards, which wraps very gracefully over the body. One end is to be tucked in the waist and the other end to be falling from the shoulder. Mostly it will be cotton, silk, or synthetic fabric adorned with intricate designs, motifs, and borders. It comes in all colors and various designs, reflecting the personal taste and occasion of the wearer.
2. Lugda:
The Lugda is a customary, rural salwar dress wearing by women in rural regions of Chhattisgarh. It is an ankle-length pleated garment made of silk or cotton and is decorated with pretty patterns or embellishments. The piece is tied at the waist with a piece of string and loosely hangs down; as such, it gives free movement to the wearer and the required comfort. Generally, it is worn along with a blouse and an Odhani to give an ethnic look.
3. Odhani:
Odhani is a traditional type of head or shoulder scarf worn by women in Chhattisgarh. It is generally made of cotton or silk material, ornamented with intensive embroidery, mirror work, and other embellishments. More functional, the Odhani serves as a duvet, adding style and elegance to the person’s clothes. Odhani is an indispensable accessory to be worn with traditional attire by women in Chhattisgarh.
The traditional dresses of the males and females of Chhattisgarh are not just dresses but bring with them the heritage of a culture, artistic fineseness, and social identity. People of Chhattisgarh celebrate through their attire the traditions and customs from where they have sprung, thus maintaining their rich indigenous culture for the generations to follow.
