West Bengal is a state with a storied cultural history that has been preserved through its literature, food, music, painting, and other artistic forms. The sartorial traditions of Bengal may be traced back to the royal court and the nobles, who placed a high emphasis on the city’s intricate textile arts.
Both modern-day West Bengal & Bangladesh share this history, and both countries maintain their traditional approaches of curating exquisite weaving while also accommodating the modern-day etymology of “fashionable” with western-wear. To satisfy the needs of collectors and fashionistas everywhere, we provide below a selection of exquisite traditional garments from West Bengal:
Traditional wear of women
1. Saree
The six-yards of gracefulness that comprise the Bengali saree are an essential part of any representation of Bengali ladies. The original designs and drapes of Bengali saris, together with the wide variety of traditional methods used on 100% cotton and silk, create an atmosphere that is both exotic and enticing. Here are some of the most popular styles of Bengali saree that neither fashionista should pass up:
2. Dhakai Jamdani
Jamdani sarees, said to have originated in Dhaka, are distinguished by their “Panna hazar” designs, which include exquisite flowers woven with gold and silver threads. Jamdani method, which requires much effort and time but lasts forever, is well worth it.
3. Korial & Garad
Traditional Bengali sarees are called garad (meaning “white”) because of the stark contrast between the dyed red border and pallu and the uncolored white silk.
Garad sarees (and its cousin- Korial with elaborate buti or floral designs in the body) are very famous during in the Durga puja, weddings, and other religious celebrations because of their religious importance. Garad sarees are the pinnacle of elegance and traditional Bengali beauty when paired with the requisite ivory/conch shell & red lacquer bangles.
4. Baluchari Sarees
Silk Balachuri sarees have its roots in a little town of the similar name close to the district of Murshidabad. Gold embroidery depicting historical and religious motifs from Indian mythology give Baluchari sarees their lavish appearance; they are hence prized as heritage items.
Sarees with gold embroidery are sometimes referred to as “swarnachari” sarees. The saree’s exquisite pallu looks its finest when worn unpleated, showing off the pattern in all its glistening glory.
5. Tant Sarees
Popular in Bengal, Tant sarees get their title from the loom they are made on. Tant sarees are suitable for the warm and humid atmosphere of Bengal since they are easy to drape and very lightweight. They include a broad, multicoloured border and a classic design of paisleys and floral motifs. They are a beautiful example of Bengali handloom tradition and may be worn with anything.
Traditional wear of men
1. Dhoti and Panjabi
Men in Bengal wear the “Panjabi,” which is similar to the kurtas used in the rest of India, with the “dhoti,” a simple cotton or silk loincloth. Depending on your preference, panjabis may be either knee-length or shorter. Bengali tussar silk, cotton-silk, or muga-silk, sometimes embellished with kantha around the neckline or buttonholes, sets Panjabis apart from standard kurtas.
Traditional garad silk kurtas for men at Bengali weddings come in beiges, creams, and honeys. These days, it’s not uncommon for a Panjabi to be worn with a pair of jeans or a pair of pants, creating a novel hybrid that combines classic style with contemporary comfort.
There is a lot of room for experimentation in the handloom weaves & spins that go into West Bengali traditional dresses. Carrying the heritage of age-old practices, traditional West Bengal attire has managed to maintain their own despite the rise and attractiveness of western wear like jeans and tops.
Both traditional and modern fusion Bengali handlooms are highly sought after by collectors. Spend lavishly on beautiful saris for the ladies in your family and yourself; they will become cherished heirlooms. Fabrics, colors, embroideries, and curtains that give a sensory experience immersing you in the cultural history of Shonar Bangla may all be found in abundance in the ‘City of Joy,’ Dhaka.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.