The history of Indian culture goes back to a thousand years, to the roots of Mohenjodaro and Harappa, lands of Madras and valleys of Kashmir. The silk saris with intricate patterns carry stories from old times. The pashmina shawls that are weaved from handpicked fibers that are entwined with delicacy and care into strong, long-lasting fibers. The traditional clothes of a land are the true reflections of its culture, rituals, and mannerisms. Indian textile history can be traced back to the times of Indus Valley civilizations.
The concept of wrapping around a piece of cloth came from mythological figures. Goddess Durga wore a red sari portraying courage and valor, while the other gods wore a dhoti or lungi in different patterns and colors symbolizing their personalities. The color of a sacrificial yet brave warrior is the color red. This indicates how diverse, and deeply significant the Indian culture is. The patterns and designs that are so finely weaved and printed tell stories of ancient times. Elephant patterns describe the times of evolution and signify fertility at the same time. Gold was used majorly not only because of its luster and shine but because it symbolized power and is meant to keep you in good health and wealth.
Roots always remain constant
The handloom was a symbol of power for weavers. Times change but roots don’t. This is the reason the chakra was put on the Indian flag, signifying independence. The loom not only crafted fibers into beautiful fabrics with intricate patterns and designs but also stood as a sign of freedom and liberty. The amount of history that a simple handloom carries is incomparable, and the beauty that it fashions is unparallel.
Adding detail to every ensemble
Fashion and style do not merely lie in designer clothes with queer patterns overlapped on each other. They lie in the simple and delicate details of the outfit. An outfit is incomplete with accessories, and this was made significant and known in the Indian culture years ago. Women wore ornaments like flesh on bones and leaves on trees. They were fragmentary without it. Gold was most commonly and widely worn by women to flaunt their wealth and accentuate beauty. Bangles, neckpieces, nose pins and earrings, each ornament hold a hidden meaning, not only symbolism wise, but also scientifically. The Indian culture goes deep in the valleys of culture and mélange. This it is one of the reasons, so many other cultures originated from it. It is one of the most respected and adored cultures, and we must not let its roots die. Â
‘The ethnic look’ known for adding grace
We truly believe that the essence of culture should run deeply through the veins of each soul so that one is always connected to the roots. Your values and morals are sprouted through your traditions. and they reflect in your dressing sense as well as your personality. This is why Indian wear precisely highlights beauty and decency in its purest forms. The patterns that are so gracefully fabricated are manifestations of old tales. The accessories have hidden meaning behind them that most of us are oblivious to too. Like how the nose pin is worn on the lobe as it presses a pressure point to decrease menstrual pain. The bindi, the red dot on the forehead is to keep the bad luck away. Earrings that heal ailments and Kangan to signify prosperity are also a symbol of a happy married life. From the toe ring to the headgear and flowers worn by women, every piece of jewelry and cloth on a women's body reveals a fact or story. If one dwells deeper into the tales and narratives of the Upanishads, unique and sundry flavors of this delicious dish called Hindustan.
Unity in diversity is the Indian belief and sticking to this motto is our aim. Ethnic wear has to itself a distinct identity that cannot be overshadowed or influenced by western wear. The opulence and grandeur of Indian wear will always remain alive, and its beauty will coax us to crawl back to our roots and connect with them from deep within.
Article By : Ambika Asthana
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