Uttarakhand, also known as the ‘Land of Gods’, is known for its breathtaking scenic beauty and serene landscape. This state is home to two major tribes in India: Garhwali and Kumaoni. Each of them have their way of dressing and style. One of the aspects that stands out is their traditional costumes that reflect the simplicity and beauty of the state. Here are some of the traditional attires worn by Uttarakhand women and men.
Traditional Dress of Women in Uttarakhand
1. Rangwali Pichora
Rangwali Pichora is a traditional gown worn by women. It has four quadrant signs right at the centre, such as Om, swastika, goddess and conch shell. The swastikais made with flowers and leaf designs along with the regular dot structure. The gown has shiny borders with colourful jhari and lace embedded in it. Each dot on the swastika sewn on the dress has religious importance. Swastik is a symbol of God, Goddess and karma yoga with four limbs pointing towards progress. Sun is in the first house of the swastika, symbolizing the well-being and power of the family. The second quadrant represents the prosperity and well-being of close ones. The third one shows Shanka and the fourth one represents a bell, which means worship.
2. Sarang and Angra
Sarang is a saree-type long piece of cloth draped around the body. There are proper pleats given, just like a regular saree. The only difference is that the pallu goes to the left shoulder in a normal saree, while here, there is no pallu, and the decorative end comes at the front. Angra is a beautiful wollen blouse with silver buttons. This is paired with a scarf to protect the hair against damage from heat and a shawl wrapped around the waist like a waistband.
3. Ghagra-choli or lehenga and dupatta
The traditional dress of women in Uttarakhand is a Ghagra choli. The ghagra is a long-flared skirt made of cotton or silk. It is often embedded with mirrorwork and beautiful embroideries. The choli is worn on the upper portion and resembles a blouse. It has deep front and front necklines. The entire dress is adorned with a charming long scarf or dupatta draped over the shoulders.
4. Thalka or Lohiya
Women of the Kumaoni tribes wear a special kind of coat known as a Thalka or Lohiya. These long coats are worn during traditional occasions and special events.
Traditional Dress of Men in Uttarakhand
1. Dhoti Kurta
The Garhwali tribal men wear a clean white dhoti. This dhoti is a long piece of cloth draped around the waist and tucked near the back of the tailbone. Kurtas are long knee-length cloths usually made of silk or cotton, and they are decorated with amazing handwork and detailed embroidery.
2. Kurta Pyjama
Kurta Pyjama is a typical attire of Garhwali men. It is paired with a topi by young people and a Paghadi or turban by older men. The fabric used differs according to the climatic weather conditions. During special events and weddings, a yellow coloured dhoti and Kurti are worn by the groom during their wedding. In earlier days, as men travelled long distances on foot, they needed to protect their silver coins against theft. Wearing such clothes helped them hide the coins inside them.
2. Breeches-Kurta
Breeches and kurta are the traditional wear of the Kumaoni tribes. They consist of knee-length shirts and tight-fitting pants. The breeches come in innovative colours like beige and white. Pure cotton fabrics are used during the weaving of the shirt. The kurta is made of silk or cotton with simple prints and marvellous embroidery.
4. Ringaal
Ringaal is a traditional hat worn by Kumaoni men. It is cylindrical in shape and typically made of bamboo sticks. Similar to a modern cap, this Ringal provides protection against excessive sun. It is often worn during cultural events or festivals.
Conclusion
Traditional attire of Uttarakhand reflects not only thebeauty of the state but also demonstrates its cultural heritage. From symbolic RangwaliPichorato the practical Dhoti Kurta, each garment serves a purpose. Even today, these traditional dresses are not only reminder of past but also worn as pride during special ocassions. This helps keep Uttarakhand’srich legacy alive.
