The traditional dress of Sikkim is a reflection of the rich diversity of the place. The state’s culture is a perfect blend of three communities: Bhutia, Lepcha and Nepali. Each group has its own style, colour, and material. The garments of Sikkim are not all about clothing, but they are living proof of how various groups exist together in peace in the mountains.
Let’s discuss the three main traditional dress of Sikkim:
The Bhutia Dress: Quite warm and symbolic
The Bhutia tribe traces its roots to Tibet. They are recognised for their iconic robe called the Bakhu. Bakhu is a long and sleeveless clothing item that is quite similar to the Chuba of Tibetan.
- Men
Men wear a Bakhu along with a loose pair of shirt and trousers. It ties at the neck and at the waist using a thick cloth or a leather belt. The leather belt is also known as Kera.
- Women
Bhutia Women used to wear a long-sleeved silk blouse, which is called a honju, under a Bakhu. If a woman is married, then she ties a bold multi colored striped apron created using wool around their waist. It is known as Pangden. The apron represents that the woman is married.
The Lepcha Clothing: Connected to nature
They are the original inhabitants of Sikkim. Their clothing symbolises natural elegance and simplicity.
- Men
Men wear the Thokro Dum. It is quite a striking clothing item featuring a white pyjama that reaches to the calves. The dress is quite similar to the traditional martial arts uniform. It is worn with an embroidered cap known as a Shambo.
- Women
Lepcha women wear Dumvum. It is a cosy and ankle-length garment which is draped like a sari. Generally, it is paired with a loose blouse, a belt and traditional headwear.
The Nepali Clothing: Highly versatile
Nepali community makes up a huge part of the population of Sikkim. Comfortable fits and vibrant hues are the main points of Nepali clothing.
- Men
The traditional Nepali outfit for men is called Daura Suruval. It consists of a long, double-breasted tunic with a pair of fitted trousers. The double-breasted tunic is called a daura, and fitted trousers are named suruval. They also wear a waistband called Patuki. Also, they used to carry a curved blade called a Khukri.
- Women
Colourful dresses are most preferred by the Nepali women, which are called Pharia. Their outfit comprises a chaubandi cholo, which is a long-sleeved and loose blouse that can be fastened on all four sides using strings. They also drape a colourful scarf over the upper body, which is called a Majorette.
Jewellery pieces!
Their attire is not complete without jewellery. Gold and silver jewel pieces are not only about the aesthetics, but also hold religious value.
- Namchok: It is a traditional and ethnic drop earring.
- Diu: They are pure gold bangles or ornaments of pearls.
- Khalli: They are thick and silver-coated anklets
- Lyak: They are necklaces.
Bottom line!
All these costumes are not just about daily wear, but they are worn with pride during important events like weddings and festivals like Losar and Saga Dawa.