Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Variations On The Punjabi Turban

Variations On The Punjabi Turban



By Nita McKinney





Throughout the world, there are so many people who wear some type of head covering as a cultural symbol, for fashion purposes or as part of religious directives. For some, these three reasons are actually one in the same. Such is the case with the Punjabi turban and those who are a part of the Sikh faith.



The Sikh religion began roughly six centuries ago in India and though still prominent there and in Pakistan, it is practiced worldwide. Members of this faith wear turbans to symbolize their commitment to live a life of self respect, honor, piety and courage. Though most people choose to wear the coverings from an early age, it becomes mandatory for a man once he has been baptized.



As part of their devotion to their faith, the men never cut their hair and they do not wear it loose. The style of the turban does not actually symbolize any level of status, it is simply a way of showing their commitment. Though there are some designs that are easily recognizable as Sikh, each person is not limited to only those few fashions and all are free to create their own wrapping method.



Proper hair preparation must be done before one begins to wrap their turban. All tresses are combed through and then gathered into a knot that has been either twisted or braided on the crown of the head near the front and then covered by a snug cloth known as a patka. This is how one keep from getting stray strands from getting tangled in the headdress as it is being formed or during daily activity.



Perhaps the most recognizable form of Sikh head wear is the old style Dhamala which is very popular with men in many Western countries. This simple design is the easiest one for beginners and has served as the basis for many other models that have since evolved. Having learned this general wrapping technique, adding personal touches to create a new look is no issue.



One of the more popular style of Punjabi headdress is the Double Patti, or Nok. This is an extra large version which begins by sewing two three meter pieces of cloth together. The end result has a bulkier appearance than other models but it is easier to do because it requires one to utilize fewer twists and wraps.



Another style that is not as common as it once was but it great for people with broader faces is the Patiala Shahi. This design features a distinct triangular point at the forehead through which the under cloth shows for a splash of color, a generally rounded silhouette with a flattened rear. The fabric used is at least seven and a half meters long and requires a lot of layers.



People of the Sikh faith wear any number of different styles of Punjabi turban. There is no religious or social significance to the design or colors of the wrappings as they are just a matter of personal preference. It helps members of this culture to recognize each other in public and stands as a way to show commitment to the teachings of their belief system.









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Variations On The Punjabi Turban Variations On The Punjabi Turban



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Variations On The Punjabi Turban



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