Discover the traditional dresses of Sikkim, a colorful celebration of culture. Learn about the different types of dresses worn by men and women, the significance of these dresses in Sikkimese culture, and where to buy traditional dresses in Sikkim.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the traditional dresses of Sikkim, including the different types of dresses worn by men and women, as well as the significance of these dresses in Sikkimese culture.
Traditional Dress of Sikkim
The traditional dresses of Sikkim are made from a variety of materials, including wool, cotton, and silk. The designs and patterns of these dresses are often inspired by nature and the Sikkimese people’s deep connection to the land.
What Is Traditional Dress for Men of Sikkim ?
The traditional dress for Sikkimese men is called the bakhu. It is a long, loose-fitting robe that is tied at the waist with a belt. The bakhu is typically made from wool or cotton and is often decorated with colorful embroidery.
What is Women’s Traditional Dress of Sikkim ?
The traditional dress for Sikkimese women is called the dumvum. It is a long, flowing dress that is draped over the body and tied at the waist. The dumvum is typically made from cotton or silk and is often decorated with intricate embroidery and beadwork.
Significance of Traditional Clothes in Sikkimese Culture
Traditional dresses are an important part of Sikkimese culture. They are worn on special occasions, such as festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. They are also worn by many Sikkimese people on a daily basis.
Traditional dresses are a symbol of Sikkimese identity and heritage. They also represent the state’s rich diversity and the harmony between nature and culture.
Types of Traditional Dresses in Sikkim
There are a variety of different types of traditional dresses worn in Sikkim, depending on the ethnic group and the occasion. Here are a few of the most common types of traditional dresses worn in Sikkim:
Bakhu
The bakhu is a long, loose-fitting robe that is worn by both men and women. It is typically made from wool or cotton and is often decorated with colorful embroidery.
The bakhu is a versatile garment that can be worn for a variety of occasions. For formal occasions, men and women may wear a bakhu made from fine wool or cotton and decorated with intricate embroidery. For everyday wear, men and women may wear a bakhu made from coarser wool or cotton and with simpler embroidery or no embroidery at all.
The bakhu is a symbol of Sikkimese culture and identity. It is also a practical garment for living in the mountainous region of Sikkim. The wool or cotton material of the bakhu provides warmth in the cold winters and coolness in the hot summers. The loose fit of the bakhu allows for freedom of movement, which is important for people who work in the fields or forests.
Dumvum
The dumvum is a long, flowing dress that is worn by women. It is typically made from cotton or silk and is often decorated with intricate embroidery and beadwork.
- The dumvum is typically made from a single piece of cloth that is draped over the body and tied at the waist with a belt.
- The dumvum has long sleeves and a high collar.
- The dumvum is often decorated with embroidery and beadwork at the cuffs, collar, hem, and bodice.
- The dumvum is worn with a variety of accessories, such as shawls, jewelry, and a head covering called the pharia.
Pharia
The pharia is a long, draped shawl that is worn by women over the dumvum. It is typically made from wool or cotton and is often decorated with colorful embroidery.
The pharia is worn by women of all ages and from all walks of life in Sikkim. It is a versatile garment that can be worn for a variety of occasions. The pharia is often worn for festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. It is also worn by many Sikkimese women on a daily basis.
Different Types of Pharia
There are many different types of pharia, depending on the occasion and the region of Sikkim. Some of the most common types of pharia include:
- The Dzumsa Pharia: This type of pharia is made from fine silk and is decorated with intricate embroidery. It is typically worn for formal occasions, such as weddings and festivals.
- The Pangden Pharia: This type of pharia is made from wool and is decorated with simple embroidery. It is typically worn for everyday wear.
- The Pakhu Pharia: This type of pharia is made from cotton and is decorated with colorful embroidery and beadwork. It is often worn by dancers and performers.
Thokro-Dum
The Thokro-Dum attire is a traditional dress worn by the Lepcha people of Sikkim. It is typically worn by Lepcha bread bakers and consists of a white pajama that reaches near the calves, a Lepcha shirt called Yenthatse, an embroidered headgear called Shambo, and a hand-woven waistband called Dupra.
The pajama has a special value for the Lepcha tribe because of its short length, which implies that the males are natives of swampy places. The material’s texture is rough and durable, making it ideal for a long day in the field.
On special occasions, such as weddings and religious and festive gatherings, Lepcha men also wear bamboo and rattan hats in the shape of cones, called Thyaktuk. These hats are finely woven headgear with great historical and real roots. During the Chogyal dynasty’s reign, royal soldiers used Thyaktuk as a traditional headpiece too.
The Thokro-Dum attire is a unique and beautiful reflection of the Lepcha people’s culture and heritage.
Shuruval
The Shuruval Daura is a traditional dress worn by Nepalese males in Sikkim. It consists of a trouser (Shuruval) and a long double-breasted coat (Daura) that reaches a little below the waist. The Shuruval is complemented by a waistcoat, Askot, and a belt, Patuki. Men also carry a Khukuri, a hefty weapon placed in a leather case (Daab).
The Shuruval Daura is a stylish and comfortable dress that is worn on special occasions, such as festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. It is also worn by some Nepalese men as everyday wear.
The Shuruval Daura is a symbol of Nepalese culture and heritage. It is a beautiful and unique dress that is sure to turn heads.
Dum Praa
The male outfit of the Lepcha tribe in Sikkim is designed to assist men with their regular field chores. It is made with the tough nature of men’s work in the fields and forests in mind.
The main garment of the male outfit is the Dum Praa, which is a short, striped waistcoat worn with a pair of trousers. The Dum Praa has a variety of designs, including:
- Tagaap: This is the oldest design and features flowery motifs and designs.
- Khemchu: This design features scissors patterns.
- Tamblyoak: This design features butterfly designs.
The male outfit of the Lepcha tribe is a unique and beautiful reflection of the tribe’s culture and heritage. It is also a practical and durable outfit for working in the fields and forests.
Lepcha Traditional Dress
The traditional dress of the Lepcha people of Sikkim is called the dumpra for men and the pharia for women. The dumpra is a short, striped waistcoat that is worn with a pair of trousers. The pharia is a long, draped shawl that is worn over a blouse and skirt.
Know about the Traditional Dress of West Bengal
Where to Buy Traditional Dresses in Sikkim
If you’re interested in buying a traditional Sikkimese dress, there are a few places where you can do so. You can find traditional dresses at shops in major towns and cities in Sikkim, such as Gangtok and Namchi. You can also find traditional dresses at some tourist shops and souvenir stalls.
If you’re looking for a more unique and authentic experience, you can try buying a traditional dress directly from a local craftsman or weaver. There are many skilled craftsmen and weavers in Sikkim who make beautiful traditional dresses.
Few tips You Should Follow while you planning to use Sikkim Attire
- If you’re buying a traditional Sikkimese dress, be sure to try it on before you buy it. Traditional dresses can be quite heavy and cumbersome, so it’s important to make sure that you get a dress that fits you well.
- If you’re buying a traditional dress from a local craftsman or weaver, be sure to ask about the materials and construction methods used. Traditional dresses are often made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, so you can be sure that your dress will last for years to come.
- If you’re planning on wearing a traditional Sikkimese dress to a special occasion, be sure to dress in a respectful manner. Avoid wearing too much jewelry or makeup, and make sure that your dress is clean and well-pressed.
Types of Traditional Jewellery Worn by Different Tribes in Sikkim
The three main ethnic groups in Sikkim are the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis. Each group has its own unique traditional jewellery, which reflects their culture and heritage.
Lepcha Traditional Jewellery
Lepcha women wear a variety of traditional jewellery, including:
- Namchok: These are silver earrings that are often decorated with turquoise or coral stones.
- Lyak: This is a silver necklace that is often decorated with turquoise or coral stones.
- Gyar: These are silver bracelets that are often decorated with turquoise or coral stones.
Bhutia Traditional Jewellery
Bhutia women wear a variety of traditional jewellery, including:
- Yencho: These are silver earrings that are often decorated with turquoise or coral stones.
- Khao: This is a silver necklace that is often decorated with turquoise or coral stones.
- Phiru: This is a pearl ornament that is worn on the forehead.
- Diu: This is a gold bangle.
- Joko: This is a silver ring.
Nepali Traditional Jewellery
Nepali women wear a variety of traditional jewellery, including:
- Tilhari: This is a long gold pendant with a string made of green beads.
- Tik Mala: This is a heavy gold necklace that is often decorated with pearls and gemstones.
- Buddhe Mala: This is a necklace made from the seeds of the rudraksha tree.
- Nath: This is a nose ring that is often made from gold or silver.
- Bichhiya: This is a toe ring that is often made from gold or silver.
You Can also check about Traditional dress and Jewellery of Assam
Final Thoughts
The traditional dresses of Sikkim are a beautiful and unique part of the state’s culture. They are a symbol of Sikkimese identity and heritage. If you’re ever visiting Sikkim, be sure to check out the traditional dresses. You might even be tempted to buy one for yourself.
FAQ
What is the traditional dress of Sikkim for men?
The traditional dress for Sikkimese men is called the bakhu. It is a long, loose-fitting robe that is tied at the waist with a belt. The bakhu is typically made from wool or cotton and is often decorated with colorful embroidery.
What is the traditional dress of Sikkim for women?
The traditional dress for Sikkimese women is called the dumvum. It is a long, flowing dress that is draped over the body and tied at the waist. The dumvum is typically made from cotton or silk and is often decorated with intricate embroidery and beadwork.
What types of traditional jewelry are worn in Sikkim?
The three main ethnic groups in Sikkim are the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis. Each group has its own unique traditional jewelry, which reflects their culture and heritage.
- Lepcha traditional jewelry: Namchok, lyak, gyar
- Bhutia traditional jewelry: Yencho, khao, phiru, diu, joko
- Nepali traditional jewelry: Tilhari, tik mala, buddhe mala, nath, bichhiya
