By Editor You must have heard that all the northeastern states are just outright stunning because of the greenery and landscapes, right? But there is one more factor that makes them super stunning and unique, and that is the culture. Take, for example, the Tripura state, where you’ll see indigenous tribal traditions and Bengali influences, and that is a big reason why so many people visit this state every single year. The first thing that stands out to most people is, of course, the way people traditionally dress in Tripura, and today, we’re here to talk about just that. Like, Traditional Dress of Tripura, both for men and women.
Traditional Dress of Tripura Women
![Traditional Dress of Tripura [For Men & Women]](https://www.statesinsights.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Traditional-Dress-of-Tripura-For-Men-Women.webp)
1. Rignai
Rignai is the first thing that comes to one’s mind when thinking of Tripuri women. It is a hand-woven wrap-around skirt that is worn from the waist to a little above the ankles. Generally, Rignais are of cotton, and the very first thing that would catch your eye is the bold geometric patterns and the bright colours.
And just so you know, back in ancient times, every clan had its distinct Rignai pattern, and thus, people could very easily identify which clan a woman was from. Now, it is a common thing among the different clans to wear the patterns of any clan because of the mixing between the clans. However, the Rignai is still the most powerful sign of a Tripuri woman.
2. Risa
The Risa is a traditional piece of fabric made from hand-spun fibers and is either worn across the chest or thrown over the shoulders. In the past, it was a significant milestone of a young girl’s growth to womanhood and was given as a present at marriage or coming-of-age celebrations.
And going in deep, well, Risas are decorated with motifs that signify various things like protection, fertility, and tribal stories. In the past, women would hand-spin the cotton threads at home, but now most of them buy yarn from the market. A lot of girls and women dress in blouses for their everyday wear; however, on the occasion of grand events, the Risa is revived and is either worn around the neck or draped like a shawl. Plain and simple!
3. Rikutu
The Rikutu is similar to a shawl, which is used along with the Rignai and Risa. Basically, it is a very handy dress in winter, at night festivals, or during pujas. Most of the time, the patterns are less complicated; however, the borders and tribal motifs can still be seen. A lot of women also wear it to keep themselves warm and thus, make their appearance fully traditional, you know?
Other Clothing and Accessories
Besides all these, the ladies put on Pachhra (a saree-style cloth) and Rinai Borok (a more luxurious Rignai made of fine cotton or silk) on their special days.
Decorative articles were also an important part of the traditional dress, like beaded necklaces, silver earrings, bangles, and headpieces, not only beautifying but also indicating the user’s social status, clan, and personality.
Traditional Dress of Tripura Men
1. Rikutu Gamcha + Kubai
Rikutu Gamcha, which is a cotton cloth wrapped around the waist, is the most common daily outfit of the people. A Kubai, which is a loose, short-sleeved shirt, is used to accompany the Rikutu. Farming, fishing, and everyday work are perfectly done in this set as it is airy and super duper comfortable. Elders, in particular, like to wear a white or earth-toned Kubai of a simple kind.
2. Kamchwlwi Borok
In these occasions like festivals, dances, or community programs, the male population of the Kamchwlwi Borok tribe can be seen adorned with this typical short jacket, which consists of lovely tribal patterns of red, black, or some other dark, deep colors, generally combined with a white lower cloth.
3. Dhuti
During pujas and other religious occasions, the Tripuri men are seen in the Dhuti, which is basically a big white or cream piece of cloth that is made to go around the waist and the ankles. The color white is a symbol of purity, and hence, white is the common color for the shirt to be worn along with the Kamchwlwi Borok or a simple shirt.
4. Kamchi and Pandri
And then, the Kamchi is a piece of fabric that is tied around the head and serves the purpose of shielding from the sun, and is additionally worn as a symbol of respect.