Bihar Traditional Dress
Mar 13, 2024 . 5 min read
Introduction
Bihar in India is culturally significant because it is also known as the "Land of Buddha" . Bihar has a very rich history of art, religion, and deeply rooted cultural aspirations. People of Bihar, specifically those from rural areas, show this vibrant culture through their dressing, which is rooted in Bihar's rich cultural heritage. Today we'll dive deep into the traditional attire of both men and women in Bihar.
Men's Clothing in Bihar:
In rural and semi-urban Bihar, you can spot elder men wearing Dhoti Mirjai, also known as Kurta and Dhoti. It embodies the essence of traditional Bihari attire for men. If you're a Bihari person and haven't been to your native place in a while, this will bring you some nostalgic feelings.
This traditional attire was historically made from cotton, but as time passed, different types of fabrics took the place of cotton, but the overall look of the attire remained intact. Although you can see some ready-made dhoti on the market, these are only for special festive occasions, as many younger people don't know how to wear a dhoti properly.
You can also spot Muslim men wearing lungis and a t-shirt or shirt on top of them. This also reflects the spirit of east meets west.
Women's Clothing in Bihar:
The saree is the epitome of traditional attire for women in Bihar. Women of Bihar wear their sarees very elegantly; there is no denying that the traditional attire makes them look very elegant and sophisticated.
Women wear their sarees in "Seedha Anchal" style; the pallu of the saree is worn in the front. Women also wear bindis, gold jewelry, and kajals, which show their grace and elegance. A Bihari women's saree is their cultural canvas, showing the richness of the past and present of Bihar's culture.
Image of a saree that a woman from Bihar wears:
Tussar Silk Saree of Bhagalpur
Bhagalpur's "Tussar Silk" is centuries old. This silk is cultivated in Bhagalpur and its nearby villages. The cocoon is also processed in this city. Nature has provided humans with four types of silk.
- Mulberry
- Tasar
- Eri
- Mugga
Tasar is mostly produced in Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhatishgarh.
Tasar silk is very robust and durable for day-to-day use. The Tussar silk saree has a golden sheen, which looks and feels luxurious. Tasar sarees can be worn by women on both casual and formal occasions.