I was getting ready for a festival called Karadaiyan Nombu. It is celebrated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, for husband's well being. This festival celebrates a strong woman named Savithri, who brought back her husband from angel of death.
While I was in the preparation mode, an idea hit me. Why not talk about traditional attire? Why not begin with introducing a look I'm familiar with.
On the day of the festival, the women dress up like the lady in this Raja Ravi Varma's Painting. The wrap she's draped around is nine yards, and usually made out of natural silk and bordered with intricately woven gold thread.
Usually, any Indian look is heavily enhanced with jewelry, predominately gold ones. Accessories start from head, decorates the hair, neck, ears, hip and ends with anklets and toes.
While I was in the preparation mode, an idea hit me. Why not talk about traditional attire? Why not begin with introducing a look I'm familiar with.
On the day of the festival, the women dress up like the lady in this Raja Ravi Varma's Painting. The wrap she's draped around is nine yards, and usually made out of natural silk and bordered with intricately woven gold thread.
Usually, any Indian look is heavily enhanced with jewelry, predominately gold ones. Accessories start from head, decorates the hair, neck, ears, hip and ends with anklets and toes.
Chutti or tikka is adorned in the front parting of the hair.
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In the back, the hair is braided long and decorated and tied with a ribbon called Kunjalam.
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The braid is pinned with strings of tropical flowers like Jasmine.
Necklace, earring and ear chain are made out of stones and beads too.
A jewel worn around the hip is called Odiyanam
Toe-ring or metti or chithu is put on the toe.
Ankle Jewel that dates back to 100-300 CE, is still in use.
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| Art of tying the flower in a string is called Thoduthal |
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| Worn from earring to hair |
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Thicker bangle act as a border to multiple thin bangles.
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A jewel worn around the hip is called Odiyanam
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Ankle Jewel that dates back to 100-300 CE, is still in use.
In southern India, it's called Thandai. It was made famous by a bold woman in history named Kannagi.
Unintentionally, this post started and ended with the mention of strong women.
Let the inner strength guide us through........
Let the inner strength guide us through........
