By Editor You must know Telangana as the newest state that came into the picture back in 2014, but the region itself is super culturally rich, and the history goes back to ancient times. We’re referring to ancient times like the Satavahanas, Kakatiyas, and Qutb Shahis kingdoms. These are the kingdoms that are linked to the modern-day or present culture of this state. But we’re here mainly to talk about the dress part because that’s the first thing you see when visiting this stunning state, so let’s just talk about the traditional dress of Telangana, both for men and women.
Traditional Dress for Women in Telangana
1. Sarees
Not a single doubt in the fact that sarees for women in Telangana are more than just daily wear; they are very much a part of the culture. Every saree type has its own unique fabric, design, and is backed by a tradition that dates back several years, you know?
- One of the most notable Gadwal sarees is highly sought after. Like, they are typically made of a cotton body with a silk border and pallu, thus creating a nice contrast with the addition of the golden zari work.
- Next, there are Pochampally sarees, which are the ikat tie-and-dye technique most well-known for. The patterns you see on these sarees are a result of the fabrics being dyed before the weaving process.
- Besides that, Narayanpet sarees with plain checked designs and temple borders can be found along with Uppada and Mangalgiri sarees that are extremely soft and light in weight. A few are made for glamorous occasions, and the rest are just great for everyday wear.
2. Langa Voni
Langa Voni, or half-saree, is the dress of young girls and unmarried women in Telangana and some other southern states. It is made of three parts: a long flared skirt, a tight blouse, and a dupatta, which is draped similarly to a saree pallu. By and large, it resembles a full saree but is lighter and less complicated to handle.
Such dress is predominantly made of silk or fine cotton, and is usually beautified with the zari borders, embroideries, or brocade works. Langa Voni is a festival attire that can be witnessed at Bathukamma and Bonalu celebrations, also at the events of coming-of-age.
3. Salwar Kameez
Besides sarees and Langa Voni, a lot of women in Telangana also choose to wear a salwar kameez for their daily wear. Really? Well, yes, the outfit consists of a long kurta, a coordinating salwar, and a dupatta. Even if it was originally a product of North India, the reason is that it is comfortable and easy to move in, it has become very popular right here.
Mostly, cotton versions are used for daily wear; however, a silk or an embellished one is selected for a function.
Traditional Dress for Men in Telangana
1. Pancha (Dhoti) and Kurta
Without a doubt, the best and most honorable traditional men’s clothing locally is the white Pancha or dhoti with a kurta. The pancha is a single piece of fabric that is wound around the waist, and the kurta may be made of cotton or silk, depending on the nature of the event, you know?
This dress is generally seen at religious ceremonies, festive occasions like Sankranti and Bonalu, marriage functions, or it is even worn as a regular dress by old men and priests.
2. Cotton Kurta with Pyjama or Lungi
You know, generally, out of these daily routines and particularly in the case of men from rural areas, a cotton kurta with a pyjama or lungi is what they choose. The material is light, handy, and just right for the weather. A lot of the young men living in the cities wear kurtas along with jeans to give it a contemporary look.
3. Sherwani
Before the sherwani was drastically changed with the trend of the world, it was a very urban sherwani from the ancient Telangana, which was the heritage of Hyderabad and the old Mughals, which means the sherwani was a major part of Telangana’s traditional menswear due to the influence of the Nizam and Mughals. It’s a single-coat garment that one can call a long coat, which is sewn of brocade or silk, and usually adorned with embroidery, buttons, and at times stone work.