India is a nation of differences. Each state has its claimed culture and conventions. Each locale has its own idiosyncrasies. Talking almost Assam, the conventional dress of Mekhela chador appears the magnificence and respect of ladies in an exceptionally distinctive way. It is not a fair piece of cloth but a living declaration to the craftsmanship and culture of Assam. The identity of the lady who wears it gets to be indeed more distinctive.
What is a Mekhela Chador?
Mekhela chador is a traditional garment worn by the women of Assam. It is divided into two main parts. The first part is the mecha. It is worn underneath. It looks like a long skirt. It is worn around the waist. The second part is the cover. It is poured from above. It looks like a saree, but the way it is worn is different.
The uniqueness of this whole outfit is hidden in its design and fabric. Traditional shapes and beautiful embroidery are done on the Mekhela chador. Especially in it flowers, vine-leaves, animals-birds and geometric patterns are created. This dress is mostly made of silk. The famous Muga silk and Eri silk of Assam are the most used in it. That's why this dress looks beautiful to Mekhela Chador Assam.
Read Also: Traditional Saree and Kurta: MP’s Cultural Fashion Pride
Historical background
The history of Mekhela chador is very old. The women of Assam have been wearing it for centuries. In ancient times, it was worn only on special occasions and festivals. The women of the families of kings and maharajas used to consider it their pride. Gradually this garment also reached the common homes.
During the reign of Ahom kings Mekhela chador got a special place. At that time it was considered a royal garment. Mekhela bed sheets, made especially of silk, were worn by upper-class women. Over time, this garment became a part of every woman's life in Assam. Even today it is definitely worn in weddings, festivals and cultural programs.
Features of Mekhela chador
- The reason for the popularity of Mekhela chador is its unique features. It is popular not only in India but also abroad.
- It is completely handcrafted.
- The traditional Assamese pattern is used in it.
- The silk used in it is very special and durable.
- It's comfortable to wear.
- The variety of colors makes it even more attractive.
- The shine of the Mekhela sheet made of muga silk remains for years. That is why it is preserved from generation to generation. It's not just clothes, But it becomes an assamese traditional attire.
The art of knitting
The process of making it is not an easy one. It takes months to prepare. In the rural areas of Assam, women weave it by hand on a loom. First, the dough is prepared. And then there's color. After that the weaving of traditional designs begins.
Each pattern is woven with the utmost care and patience. That's why each of them is unique and special. Many members of the family work together to make it. This weaving art of Assam is still an important part of its economy and culture.
Mekhelachador and Festival
Wearing Mekhela chador on celebrations and extraordinary events of Assam has a distinctive importance. Amid the Bihu celebration, ladies wear the Mekhela chador whereas performing the conventional move. It is too utilized in weddings and devout ceremonies.
- At the wedding - brides especially wear silk Mekhela chador.
- In the festival - Mekhela Chaddar with colorful designs enhances the glow of the festival.
- In cultural programs - artists give the message of Assam's culture by wearing it.
Mekhela chador and Women
Mekhela chador is not just a cloth, it is the identity of the women of Assam. Wearing it gives them confidence and dignity. This garment gives them both simplicity and beauty. Today's modern women also wear it on special occasions.
You May Also Like: Traditional vs Modern Clothing Styles in Madhya Pradesh
Mekhela sheet in modern times
Even though the trend of fashion and western clothes has increased in today's time, the popularity of Mekhela chador has not decreased. Designers have also made new changes to it. Now a mix of modern patterns and colors is seen in it.
- College girls also wear it at festivals.
- Mekhela chador is showcased on the international stage in fashion shows.
- It has now reached every corner of India through online shopping.
Contribution to the Economy of Assam
Mekhela chador is not only a garment but also a part of Assam's economy. Thousands of families are associated with it. Their livelihood depends on it. Silk industry and weaving art have become the identity of Assam. The government also runs schemes to promote this Mekhela Chador Assam.
Conclusion
Mekhela chador is the heritage of Assam. This garment symbolizes the beauty and dignity of the women of Assam. Art and tradition are passed down from generation to generation. Be it a wedding, a festival or a cultural event - Mekhela chador leaves its special mark everywhere.
It is not a fair cloth, but a reflection of the soul and culture of Assam. It is our duty to keep this convention lively for eras to come. At whatever point a lady wears a Mekhela chador, she not as it were looks excellent, but looks like herself. It moreover carries forward the wealthy culture and convention of Assam.
.webp)
.webp)
