Study Guides/Culture/Punjabi Traditional Costume
Study Guide · Culture

Traditional Costumes of Punjab

The traditional clothing of Punjab reflects the vibrant culture, rich agricultural history, and lively spirit of its people. The costumes are bright, comfortable, and beautifully embroidered.

Question (Click to Flip)

What is a Gidda dress?

Answer

Gidda is the traditional folk dance of Punjabi women. The dress usually consists of a brightly coloured, heavily embroidered Kurta, a wide Salwar or Lehenga, and heavy traditional jewellery like the Tikka, Jhumka, and Chooda (bangles).

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Key Facts

Historically, the rich embroidery of the Phulkari was not sold in markets; it was created by women in their homes for their daughters' weddings and passed down as family heirlooms.

Women's Traditional Costume

1. Punjabi Salwar Kameez:

  • This is the classic, everyday wear for Punjabi women.
  • The Kameez is the long shirt/tunic, and the Salwar is the baggy, pleated trouser narrow at the ankles.
  • The Patiala Salwar is a very famous variation, characterised by numerous heavy pleats that require a lot of fabric.

2. Phulkari:

  • The most iconic part of Punjabi female attire is the Phulkari Dupatta (shawl/scarf). 'Phulkari' means flower-work. It involves dense, bright, colourful embroidery done mostly on hand-woven cotton (khaddar).

3. Paranda:

  • A colourful tasselled accessory woven into a woman's hair braid.

Men's Traditional Costume

1. Kurta Pyjama / Kurta Chadra:

  • The traditional dress for men is a long, loose shirt called a Kurta paired with a baggy Pyjama.
  • Traditionally, farmers wore a Chadra (or Tehmat), which is a piece of cloth wrapped around the waist like a lungi, instead of pyjamas.

2. Pagri (Turban):

  • The Turban (Pagg / Dastar) is the crown of Punjabi men, particularly Sikhs. It is a symbol of honour, self-respect, and religious faith.

3. Muktsari Jutti:

  • Traditional leather footwear embroidered with golden threads (Tilla work), worn by both men and women.

Questions and Answers

What is a Gidda dress?+

Gidda is the traditional folk dance of Punjabi women. The dress usually consists of a brightly coloured, heavily embroidered Kurta, a wide Salwar or Lehenga, and heavy traditional jewellery like the Tikka, Jhumka, and Chooda (bangles).

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