By Editor In every region of India, you’ll find people dressed in a certain way, and that has to do with the weather and, of course, the culture of that region. And the same goes for Manipur too, because its weather is just incredible, and it really is a culturally rich state. But the majority of people living within the borders of India don’t know what people traditionally wear in Manipur, and if you don’t know either, well, just keep on reading then. Here, we’re about to list down the traditional dress of Manipur, both for men and women.
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Traditional Dress of Manipur Women
1. Phanek
If we talk about the most traditional or common dress for Manipuri Women, well, it has to be Phanek. It is an everyday attire too, which women in this state likes to wear for comfort and practical purposes. For those who have little to no idea of what it looks like, well, the Phanek is the traditional garment of the Manipuri women. It is a typical skirt that is tied at the waist and extends to the ankles, and is generally made of either cotton or silk. The Phanek is available in one-color, striped, or small geometric patterned varieties. The Phanek is a completely comfortable and modest garment since it is made of a non-transparent fabric.
On normal days, women choose to wear plain cotton Phanekks. However, for such special events as weddings or festivals, the Mayek Naibi is the choice that dominates. In short, it is just an elaborately embroidered version with mirror work and delicate borders.
2. Inaphi
It is not typically an attire but more like a shawl that makes an attire perfect. If you haven’t seen one, well, it is like a comforting, airy, and delicate piece of clothing resting on the shoulders; it is generally made of either cotton or silk and is colored with some light tones. The conventional ones are without any prints or designs, whereas the latest Rani Phis have attractive borders and luxurious fabrics. Put on an Inaphi, and this one easily brings a touch of elegance and class to any outfit you like to go with.
3. Potloi
Oh, this one is a special dress, mainly for the brides in the state. How does it look? Well, generally, it is a rigid, round skirt, lavishly adorned with mirrors, stones, and embroidery, and the color used is mostly red, green, or pink. It is the most beautiful and dignified garment for the marriage ceremony and the Ras Leela performance. This dress has been the staple of the wedding customs of the Manipuris from the time of the 1700s and is still the main essence of the bridal look down there in every part of the state.
4. Lai Phi & Chin Phi
During major festivals like Yaoshang, women display the Lai Phi, which is essentially a white shawl with yellow embroidered edges decorated with needlework. Besides the Lai Phi, the Chin Phi is also worn by them, and this is a blouse with distinctive patterns.
Traditional Dress of Manipur Men
1. Khudei
The Khudei is the dhoti of Manipur, short, straightforward, and handy. Plain and simple! Most of the time, it is a white or off-white cotton and is tied properly around the waist. That’s all, and it is usually worn as an everyday thing.
2. Khamen Chatpa
On special days, men like to go with the Khamen Chatpa. The cloth is of silk, and the design either is hand-painted or printed. The designs are in color, like royal red or purple on a white base. In the past, it was a royal gift for the creative artists and poets in the region.
3. Pagri
Well, you might already know what it is, and yes, the Pagri is something that no traditional men’s attire can do without. This headgear, which is generally kept white but may also be in different shades, is a kind of turban that is wrapped in a very special way around the head at the time of any kind of ceremonies, weddings, or temple events.
4. Ningthoupee
And then, at last, the Ningthoupee is a lengthy and elaborately decorated garment that makes the royal outfit perfect. Fashioned out of silk with intricate designs, it used to be the attire of the kings and aristocrats. At present, it is only seen at very lavish events such as the Sajibu Cheiraoba.