The ancient costumes of the state represent their heritage related to agriculture. Their clothing is not all about decorative items, but it marks regional identity, social standing or community. Their emphasis is on bright colours and comfort to brighten the rural landscapes.
Men typically wear a Dhoti and Kurta topped with a traditional Turban or Pagri. At the same time, women choose to wear bright colored dress consisting of a flared skirt called Daaman, a blouse called Kurti and a headscarf called Chunder.
Traditional Dress of Haryana for Men!
Its comfort, simplicity and functionality define the ancient clothing for men in Haryana. Their attire is crafted in a way which is perfect for an agrarian lifestyle.
- Dhoti
It is a long unstitched piece of cloth. It is wrapped around the waist. The attire allows easy movement during fieldwork. Historically, it was white in colour.
- Kurta
The clothing piece is worn along with a dhoti. Simply, it is a loose and knee-length tunic. It is typically produced with a plain white cotton fabric.
- Pagri (Turban)
A crucial element of men’s identity. The clothing item is considered a symbol of respect, honour, and social status. It comes in a variety of colours depending on the region.
- Angocha or Chaddar
Men drape a light cotton cloth over their shoulders for practical purposes. The clothing piece protects from the sun, wrapping around the body.
Traditional Dress of Haryana For women!
Haryana women wear vibrant colours with striking patterns. Their attire consists of three garments.
- Kurti
It is a short and waist-length shirt. Although the kurti is prepared in various colours, Haryanvi women mostly prefer light hues.
- Daaman
The daaman is different from other common Lehengas. It is an ankle-length and hugely flared skirt. It is generally seen in vibrant colours. Also, it features a heavy border to provide weight to the lower fabric, giving a beautiful flow.
- Chunder
It is a long and bright colored piece of cloth which is quite similar to a dupatta. Most often, it contains shiny laces and intricate embroidery. One end is used to cover the head. And the other is tucked into the waistline at the front.
Variations according to regions and communities!
Now, you are well aware of the basic attire. Here is a subtle difference according to the community or region.
- The Ahir community
Women from the Ahir community wear Angia along with Daaman. An angia is a short blouse.
- Subtle regional nuances
Although the core elements of the dress are the same, the fabrics or patterns change when you move from one region to another. There are also some minor changes present in patterns and designs.
Craftsmanship and embroidery work!
Most of their garments are decorated with intricate embroidery designs. Some known patterns are zardozi and Gota Patti. Motifs are also added to clothing items like peacocks, floral patterns, and so on. They represent the natural beauty of the state.
Today’s generation has been influenced by modern culture, but the ancestral heritage of Haryana is still alive in various forms.