Traditional Dress of Odisha Men & Women

Odisha Traditional Clothing: Cultural Symbolism

Odisha, whose ancient Jagannath and Konark temples are among the most famous in the nation, is similarly full of cultural riches, particularly dance, music, and traditional clothing. Once called Utkala and Kalinga, the state prides itself on offering its heritage as stunning handloom clothing and unique dress designs.

Traditional Women's Clothing
The saree is the most common wear among Odia women, i.e., handloom varieties like:

Khandua Saree: Khandua sarees are smooth silks in nature. They are mostly worn on festival days. They come in metallic colors and wavy motifs. The borders consist of plain ikat motifs, while graphic motifs are used in the pallavs.

Sambalpuri Ikat: Crafted with the Bandhkala technique, the sarees have traditional designs such as flowers and rudraksha. 

Sonepuri (Bomkai): The tribal and silk prints merging, the sarees prefer to be in natural colors, embroidered pallavs with simple designs.

Pasapali: With the checked prints and double ikat weave, Pasapali sarees are vibrant and attention-seeking.

Berhampuri Patta: Silky city of Berhampur, these temple border sarees are worn on weddings and festive days.

Dupattas (uttariyo) are also utilized to decorate kurtis on events and ceremonies by ladies. They are also normally done in zari work.

Classic Men's Wear

Sambalpuri Kurtas: Ornaments in trendy ikat patterns, they have a subtle but elegant look.

Kurta with Pyjama or Dhoti: Dominant in rural Odisha, dhotis here are typically painted with a border and combined with plain kurtas.

Sherwani: The bridegrooms dress it up, sherwanis being richly decorated and paired with turbans and churidars on festive occasions.

Tribal and Dance Wear

Clothing is worn according to the social standing of the tribals. Gamango and Dangaria shawls are clothing of cultural importance.

Odissi dance wear consists of fine sarees, silver accessories like anklets and chokers, and ceremonial hair adornments. The attire represents Odisha's classical culture and heritage.

Conclusion

Odisha's traditional dress is a blend of tradition, history as well as handiwork. In the form of beautiful sarees, tribal dress, or dance wear, Odisha's inhabitants continue to leave behind their glorious past with pride.