A Comprehensive Exploration of Traditional Attire Across All Indian States and Union Territories

1. Andhra Pradesh

Kicking off our colorful guide from the Deccan region, Andhra Pradesh introduces us to the glorious traditional outfits. The women of Andhra Pradesh dress in handloom sarees. Most worn sarees are of silk, with a rich feel and texture due to their elaborate weaving. Young women wear the two-piece conventional saree called the Langa Voni. Andhra’s Kalamkari sarees are well known for their floral or mythological motifs, and figures from epics etched on them. The men use the shirt called kurta as the upper garment, teamed with dhoti, lungi, or pajama.

2. Arunachal Pradesh

Moving to the beautiful northeast, we reach Arunachal Pradesh, from vibrant handwoven skirts to gorgeously embroidered jackets, Arunachali outfits are a reflection of the region’s local diversity and skilled craftsmanship. A full-sleeved coat over a loose chemise is the traditional wear for women. Here, bamboo and silver accessories are worn commonly. The men wear silk shirts and pin the edges around the shoulder to secure. Their customary green lungis have colored stripes of blue, yellow, or white. The Sherdukpen men’s wear is famous for the skull-caps called Gurdam, which are made from Yak hair.

3. Assam

Set in the lush green landscapes we reach Assam that brings to you the beautiful Mekhela Chador. Especially during occasions like weddings or festivities, women take pride to adorn themselves in this attire. This handloom product is woven from durable Muga silk. The men were dhoti and kurta or kameez, often draping the long cloth ‘chador’ from the Seleng region.

4. Bihar

Moving forward toward the Ganga plains, Bihar presents the classic Bhagalpuri Silk Sarees. Known for their lightweight and exquisite patterns, Bhagalpuri sarees are a classic presentation of statement elegance. Whether you’re attending a wedding or a traditional festival, a Bhagalpuri silk saree is sure to make you stand out from the crowd. The traditional dress of men from Bihar is the dhoti-mirjai and kurta.

5. Gujarat

And here we come to swirl and twirl in the land of Gujarat! The Chaniya Choli, famous with its mirror work and rich vibrant colours, is the epitome of Indian festive fashion. From Navratri celebrations to functions and wedding, this outfit guarantees you to be the life of the party. In general, men wear a dhoti and a kurta.

6. Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh gifts us the warm and cosy touch of Kullu Shawls. Woven with elaborate patterns and gorgeous colours, these shawls are not just winter staple clothes but also a symbol of the state’s rich cultural heritage.

7.Karnataka

In the garden and diverse city of India, Karnataka, Ilkal and Mysore Silk Sarees take center stage. Woven with precise skills and zari work, these sarees are a symbol of luxury and royalty. Whether attending a wedding or a festival party, a Mysore Silk Saree guarantees you make a fashion statement and get hundreds of compliments. The men prefer to wear a kurta and a lower-garment called a lungi or panche.

8.Kerala

God’s own country wouldn’t settle for anything less than perfection, and neither does their traditional outfit. Kerala’s most standard traditional wear is called the mundu. It resembles a long skirt and is worn by both men and women. Women wear the Mundum Neriyathum, traditionally a two-piece costume in the style of a saree. Men wear a shirt or kurta as the upper garment and the Veshti, a type of sarong.

9.Maharashtra

In the soil of Bollywood dreams, Maharashtra showcases the show-stopping Paithani Sarees. These sarees are a kaleidoscope of colours, reciting stories of tradition and style in each thread. The men wear a cotton kurta paired with the dhoti. Their cotton caps are called ‘pheta’ or ‘pagadi’. A sleeveless jacket called ‘bandi’ is often worn.

10.Punjab

Are you ready to set the floor on fire with your bhangra moves? because we’re in Punjab, the house of the lively and colourful Patiala Suit. With its voluminous salwar and short kameez, this outfit is an immaculate blend of comfort and traditional fashion. The turban of the Sikh man is a symbol of honour. Along with kurta, the men wear light and baggy Tehmat pyjamas as the lower garment.

11.Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu and Kanjeevaram sarees are almost synonymous with each other. Woven with pure silk and zari work, these sarees are a representation of eternal class of a woman. A Kanjeevaram Saree ensures you drape yourself in the grace and tradition of Tamil Nadu. The men wear kurta-styled Daura and comfortable trousers called Sural.

12.Uttar Pradesh

Have we reached U.P now? Oh yes, the people of Uttar Pradesh gift us the delicate magic of Chikankari Sarees. Elaborately embroidered with white thread on pastel fabrics, these sarees are a presentation of infinite grace and style. The men go for kurta, dhoti, or pyjama.

13.West Bengal

The white saree with broad, red borders is an iconic and favorite festive wear for Bengali women. The Salwar-Kameez is also popular alongside sarees. The men traditionally wear the Panjabi, which is a long shirt in the style of a kurta. Their lower garments include cotton pyjama, dhoti, and lungi.