The hill state of Himachal Pradesh is famous for its
mystical charm, traditional way of life and awe-inspiring beauty that envelopes
this place on the lap of Himalayas. The state has largely remained untouched
from the foreign influences and quickly developing modern cultures. Himachal
Pradesh has maintained to stick to its ancient roots while coexisting
peacefully with the bountiful nature that they are blessed with. Just like
every other Indian state this paradise on earth is also multilingual and
multicultural which allows the development and mingling of various perspective
and thoughts. In the recent years with the advent of astounding increase in
tourism in these parts the population has become increasingly aware of their
involvement in the growth of tourism in Himachal Pradesh.
The culture of the local population of Himachal i.e. the Pahari people are very diverse in their own way and is deeply seated into their entire belief system. From their attire to their way of life and even food every thing reflects their unique and distinct culture which is so different form the rest of India. It really makes you think about the cultural diversity that have found their home in India. The Hindu communities residing here include Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. Further into the state the tribal communities reside in the forests here like the Gaddis, Kinnarms, Gujjars and Lahaulis.
The state of Himachal Pradesh is home to a number of tribes in regions from Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti including a few areas of Manali. Women belonging to these tribal communities can be seen wearing silver ornaments like Bushehri Topi, Dohru and Stall etc. the tribal people belonging to Lahaul and Spiti adorn themselves with their traditional garments that are made with eloquent colours. The traditional clothes for the men in Manali region sultan and Chola along with a belt known as Dora or Dori in simple Hindi. Women cover their head in a long shawl known as Pattoo and Dhatu or Thipu which is a sign of preserving their culture. These tribal dresses are hand woven by the people living there which makes it one of the most popular dressing. People in Himachal are not afraid to safekeep their tradition and culture which is clear through their attire and they find immense pride in their way of life. They believe in protecting and safeguarding their rich diversity and amazing ethnicity. All the tribes and communities exist in peace with each other along side one another.
Speaking of clothing and traditional attire of Himachal Pradesh you must know that the dress is not complete until the women adorn themselves with quirky and wonderful jewellery made out of primarily silver ornaments. The bangles and rings here are created out of horse hair. These accessories are very beautiful and attractive to look at which only adds on to the beauty of the whole outfit. Along with jewellery and ornaments you will notice that the women here also wear beautifully patterned and smooth shawls which is a necessary addition to their daily wear due to the cold temperature which they have to experience on a daily basis. There are a variety of shawls ranging from Pashmina to goat’s hair which is not only of demand here in the hill state but is also an important selling point for the rest of the world when they visit to Himachal as well. The people of Himachal Pradesh respect and safe guard their heritage and beliefs which is clear through the way they dress up.
Culture of Himachal Pradesh
The culture of the local population of Himachal i.e. the Pahari people are very diverse in their own way and is deeply seated into their entire belief system. From their attire to their way of life and even food every thing reflects their unique and distinct culture which is so different form the rest of India. It really makes you think about the cultural diversity that have found their home in India. The Hindu communities residing here include Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. Further into the state the tribal communities reside in the forests here like the Gaddis, Kinnarms, Gujjars and Lahaulis.
A glimpse of Himachali culture is offered through
the numerous local festivals and fairs held in reverence of various local gods,
many of which are unique to the region. These festivals demonstrate a panorama
of indigenous music and colourful dance forms that echo the diverse cultural
identity of the state. Apart from these artforms, a number of traditional
handicrafts also form a vital part of Himachali culture. Products such as
carpets, shawls, caps, paintings, metalware, woodwork and leather crafted by indigenous
methods that have been used by Himachali artisans for centuries are in great
vogue across the country.
Traditional Himachali Dress for Women
Women belonging to the Rajput Himachali community wear long kurtas that starts from their necks and goes on till their toe. This was a result of the avid purdah system or veil system which was prevalent in this region during the bygone ages. One of the most popular attire among the women of Himachal Pradesh is colourful and vibrant looking cholis, ghaghris and typical Salwar Kameez. Brahmin women also wear the same kind of attire and clothing. There is no difference between the clothing style of the 2 majority communities among the women. During some fun festivals and fairs or special occasion like weddings, they adorn themselves with long pyjamas, traditional Ghaghra Choli and traditional rings and bangles.
Traditional Himachali Dress for Men
To a layman traveller or a tourist, the dressing of these locals would seem same but to a keen eye there are several differences that can be pointed out in the way they dress up in traditional attire. Primarily the entire population is divided into 2 classes namely brahmin and Rajput. The differences in them can be noted on close speculation. The Rajput men wear tight Payjamas and Churidars along with a long silk overcoat and kurta. Traditionally these coats are made out of yak leather and sown with silken threads, which helps in keeping the wearer warm. The turbans that adorn their head which are coloured dyed and starch stiffened. These turbans and long moustaches are symbolic for honour and pride of the men belonging to Rajput community. Men of Brahmin community can also be seen wearing dhoti with kurta combined with a traditional waist coat or a colourful overcoat. Priests are seen wearing mostly white colored clothes along with a small soft towel piece of cloth on their shoulders. During festive ceremonies and occasions men make it a point to wear brand new Kurta with Payjama which are adorned with embroidered caps and sometimes team it up with Himachali shawls as well.
Himachali Dress of Tribal Communities
The state of Himachal Pradesh is home to a number of tribes in regions from Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti including a few areas of Manali. Women belonging to these tribal communities can be seen wearing silver ornaments like Bushehri Topi, Dohru and Stall etc. the tribal people belonging to Lahaul and Spiti adorn themselves with their traditional garments that are made with eloquent colours. The traditional clothes for the men in Manali region sultan and Chola along with a belt known as Dora or Dori in simple Hindi. Women cover their head in a long shawl known as Pattoo and Dhatu or Thipu which is a sign of preserving their culture. These tribal dresses are hand woven by the people living there which makes it one of the most popular dressing. People in Himachal are not afraid to safekeep their tradition and culture which is clear through their attire and they find immense pride in their way of life. They believe in protecting and safeguarding their rich diversity and amazing ethnicity. All the tribes and communities exist in peace with each other along side one another.
Traditional Jewellery and other Accessories for Women of Himachal
Speaking of clothing and traditional attire of Himachal Pradesh you must know that the dress is not complete until the women adorn themselves with quirky and wonderful jewellery made out of primarily silver ornaments. The bangles and rings here are created out of horse hair. These accessories are very beautiful and attractive to look at which only adds on to the beauty of the whole outfit. Along with jewellery and ornaments you will notice that the women here also wear beautifully patterned and smooth shawls which is a necessary addition to their daily wear due to the cold temperature which they have to experience on a daily basis. There are a variety of shawls ranging from Pashmina to goat’s hair which is not only of demand here in the hill state but is also an important selling point for the rest of the world when they visit to Himachal as well. The people of Himachal Pradesh respect and safe guard their heritage and beliefs which is clear through the way they dress up.
As we know that dresses are an essential part of our life as well as our culture. Dresses represent our tradition and tell us about the depth of it.
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TRADITIONAL DRESSES OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
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ReplyDeletethis is really a helpful post and nice information thanks
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