The Santali saree, also known as the Santhal saree, is a traditional attire worn by the Santal community, an indigenous tribe residing mainly in the states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Assam in India, as well as in some parts of Bangladesh. The Santals are known for their rich cultural heritage, and their attire plays a significant role in expressing their identity and heritage.
The Santali saree is distinct and easily recognizable due to its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique draping style. It reflects the artistic craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility of the Santal people. The saree is usually made from handwoven cotton or silk fabric, which is both comfortable and suitable for the region’s tropical climate.
One of the key features of the Santali saree is its exquisite border and pallu design. The borders are often adorned with intricate geometric patterns, floral motifs, or traditional tribal artwork, which are meticulously woven by skilled artisans. The pallu, the end portion of the saree that falls over the shoulder, is also elaborately decorated with eye-catching designs that symbolize various aspects of Santal culture, such as their connection with nature, traditional beliefs, and folklore.
The colors used in Santali sarees are vibrant and bright, reflecting the joyous and lively spirit of the Santal community. Red, green, yellow, blue, and white are the most commonly used colors, each holding a unique significance. Red represents fertility and power, while green symbolizes nature and prosperity. Yellow is associated with harvest and new beginnings, blue represents water and the sky, and white signifies purity and peace.
The draping style of the Santali saree is unique and sets it apart from other regional saree styles. The pleats are typically worn at the back, and the pallu is brought forward over the right shoulder, allowing the intricate designs to be prominently displayed. The saree is usually paired with a matching or contrasting blouse, completing the elegant and graceful look.
Wearing the Santali saree goes beyond fashion; it holds deep cultural and social significance for the Santal women. It is an integral part of their rituals, festivals, and special occasions. Santal women take great pride in donning their traditional attire during festivals like Sarhul, Sohrai, and Karma, as well as during weddings and other important ceremonies.
In recent times, there has been a growing interest in preserving and promoting traditional crafts and art forms, including the Santali saree. Organizations and individuals are working to support local artisans and weavers, ensuring the continuation of this cherished cultural heritage.
The Santali saree is not only a symbol of the Santal community’s cultural identity but also a beautiful representation of India’s diverse and rich traditional craftsmanship. It stands as a testament to the beauty and significance of indigenous art forms, keeping alive the stories and traditions of the Santal people for generations to come.
Source: Instagram
Urmila Kothare’s saree is a beautiful gray cotton handcrafted worked Khun saree. The Khun saree is known for its intricate handcrafted work, which involves weaving motifs into the fabric. The gray color of the saree adds elegance and grace to the overall look. The saree has a simple yet classic look, making it perfect for any occasion.
To complement the gray saree, Urmila Kothare paired it with a green half-sleeves blouse. The green color of the blouse adds a pop of color to the outfit, making it stand out. The blouse has a simple design with no intricate work, allowing the focus to remain on the saree.
Urmila Kothare’s hairstyle is a Gajra bun, which is a popular traditional hairstyle in India. The Gajra bun involves tying the hair into a bun and adorning it with a Gajra, which is a string of fresh flowers. The Gajra adds a touch of femininity and grace to the hairstyle, making it perfect for traditional attire.
Urmila Kothare accessorized her traditional look with a pearl choker and pearl haram necklace. The pearl choker sits snugly around her neck and adds a touch of elegance to the outfit. The pearl haram necklace, on the other hand, adds length to the neckline, making it appear more elongated. Both the pearl choker and pearl haram necklace are timeless pieces of jewelry that can be worn with any traditional outfit.
Urmila Kothare completed her traditional look with a nose ring and silver Jhumki’s. The nose ring adds a touch of sophistication to the outfit and highlights her cultural roots. The silver Jhumki’s, on the other hand, add a touch of sparkle to the outfit, making it stand out. Both the nose ring and silver Jhumki’s are classic pieces of jewelry that can be worn with any traditional attire.
In conclusion, Urmila Kothare’s traditional look in the gray cotton handcrafted worked Khun saree paired with a green half-sleeves blouse, Gajra bun hairstyle, pearl choker and pearl haram necklace, nose ring, and silver Jhumki’s is a perfect example of how to look elegant and graceful in traditional attire. Her attention to detail and choice of accessories make the outfit stand out and highlight her cultural roots. Urmila Kothare is undoubtedly a fashion icon, and her traditional look is an inspiration for many.
