Haryana, a state known for its delectable cuisine and rich ancient traditions, seamlessly blends cultural heritage with abundance. As the Vedic land and nucleus of Indian culture, Haryana traditional dress holds a special place in mythology, symbolizing the origin of the universe through Brahma’s pristine sacrifice.
Now, let’s delve into the distinctive culture of Haryana, focusing on the renowned Haryana traditional dress, especially for men and women.
Traditional Dress of Haryana For Men:
Dhoti:
The traditional trousers for Haryanvi men, a dhoti is a large rectangular piece of fabric wrapped around the waist and legs, achieving a secure fit by tucking in the loose ends.
- Kurta:
Men wear kurtas or shirts over their torsos, predominantly in white. Made of cotton or silk, kurtas may feature embroidered designs like chikan, varying in length from above to below the knees. - Shirt:
Similar to a kurta but shorter, a shirt is a common upper wear for Haryanvi men, often with cuffs on the sleeves. - Pagri:
A pagri, a long, unstitched cloth, signifies honor and reverence, with its length indicating the wearer’s regional identity. - Shoes:
Juttis, leather footwear embroidered with threads, are popular in North India, known for their distinctive pointed tips resembling moustaches.
Traditional Dress of Haryana For Women:
- Shirt:
Women in Haryana wear long-sleeved shirts, reaching past their waist. - Ghagra (Daaman):
Also known as daaman, a ghagra is a long, pleated skirt adorned with embroidery, fastened around the waist or hips. - Odhni:
Worn over clothing, the odhni is a long fabric piece with colorful borders, often used to cover the head. - Petticoat:
A form-fitting undergarment similar to lehengas or ghagras, petticoats are made of satin or cotton, providing a tighter fit. - Angia: A tight-fitting blouse covering the mid-section of the torso completes the traditional attire for Haryanvi women.
Haryana Groom’s Dress:
For weddings, Haryanvi grooms elevate their traditional attire with high-quality dhotis and kurtas adorned with intricate embroidery. The ensemble is complemented by a turban.
Haryana Bridal Dress:
Brides adhere to Hindu customs, donning brightly colored sarees or opting for salwar-kameez or ghagra with odhni, often featuring intricate designs. Traditional jewelry, including small gold or silver earrings and necklaces, completes the festive look.
Ancient Culture of Haryana:
Rich in Vedic heritage, Haryana’s folklore is a reflection of its historical significance. The state’s mouthwatering cuisine, vibrant fairs, and picturesque landscapes contribute to its title as ‘The Home of Gods.’
Traditional Fairs of Haryana:
- Surajkund International Fair:
A vibrant showcase of craft and handloom, depicting rural Haryana culture with bright colors and rhythmic beats. - Mango Mela:
Combining technology and tradition, this fair in Pinjore celebrates various mango varieties while providing a platform for farmers. - Pinjore Heritage Festival:
An annual celebration of Haryana’s diverse culture, featuring poets, musicians, and dancers in the historic town of Pinjore.
Haryana also hosts lively festivals like Teej, Guga Navmi, among others, with Teej being the most prominent, celebrated with zeal throughout the province.
Now that you’re acquainted with culture, festivities, and haryana traditional dress, when will you plan your visit to experience the charm of this culturally rich state?