HISTORY OF KURTA OR KURTI

Jun 26, 2024

History

HISTORY OF KURTA OR KURTI

In modern usage, a short kurta is referred to as the kurti, which is the attire of females. However, traditionally, the term kurti refers to waist coats, jackets and blouses which sit above the waist without side slits, and are believed to have descended from the tunic of the Shunga period (2nd century B.C.).

Described 19th Century:

The Kurti or Kurta is an outfit that has stretched beyond the Indian borders, and has evolved down the ages to suit the ever-changing demands of the fashion forward world. A long top, generally of knee-length, paired with Salwar or Churidar and Dupatta is what comprises the Salwar-Kurti-Dupatta get-up.

Origin and History

Since its formation in ancient times, the kurta has been one of the traditional attires for men and women living in countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and even Sri Lanka. Initially, this Indian outfit was a form of clothing worn only by men living in these countries, but later it became a regular attire for women, for which it has its own feminine term known as Kurti.

Looking back at the early 19th Century, the Kurta gained popularity as several scholars, artists and poets were famous for donning this piece of clothing. Contrary to the various styles and forms found today, this Indian Kurti back then was usually very simple with barely any elaborate designs. The most common fabric used to make it was Cotton, followed by Silk, which was only used to make Kurtas for special occasions, or for people with higher social standing and wealth.

In addition to that, the hippie movement during the 1960’s and 1970’s also gave this tunic dress immense popularity as people wore these loose and comfortable pieces as reflecting their laid back and carefree attitude.

The intriguing fact about the Kurti is that it was not limited to any particular state or region, unlike other dress forms that have a set identity; it was a common form of attire followed by people living in all kinds of areas.

Source: Wikipedia