The many ways that Indian Clothing contribute to the upkeep of the Indian Culture here in Guyana By Lynette Mangar
I
n these contemporary times with an abundance of Western influences, the Indian culture is very much alive all over Guyana. Guyanese have easy access to almost everything that keep the Indian culture alive. Take for instance the Indian weddings and all the other Indian religious ceremonies and rituals, which are constantly being performed all over Guyana, almost all the guests will be appropriately dressed in their Indian attire. Colour in Indian clothing varies according to the religion and ritual concerned. For instance, Hindu women wear white clothes for mourning, while Muslims wear white for weddings and elaborate functions. The Muslim brides will wear white or cream lahengas with green and gold or silver workings. The Muslim brides also wear salwar-kameez with their head wear to get married. On the other hand, the Hindu brides wear red lahengas or saris to get married. The grooms wear the sherwani suit or the traditional satin “jora jama� with the phagri (head wear) The more religious families will give their brides yellow or gold clothing. Lately the brides are wearing colours of their choice instead of the traditional red or yellow. Men and women clothing have evolved from the simple and traditional dhoti and sari , to the more elaborate and contemporary outfits and costumes. Women wear saris, lahengas, ghararas and Anarkali salwarkameez to the weddings. The salwar-kameez, whether anarkali or churridar style, were originally worn by Muslim women, but today we see all the women wearing them to any function. They are the most popular Indian outfit presently here in Guyana. The sari happens to be the most elegant wear at the Hindu weddings. This unstitched , six yards length of silk or chiffon , or any other appropriate sari material, can be wrapped in many ways. The sari enhances the feminine form and also covers up figure flaws. Young girls moving around in saris radiate charm and romance around them. ..Legend has it that the sari was born on the loom of a fanciful weaver. He dreamt of a woman. Her long tumbling hair, her shimmering tears, the softness of her touch and the colours of her many moods! He wove for many days and alas he was done! He sat back and smiled and smiled. Enchanting grace, flamboyant
Guyana Inc. - Issue 15 P.66