India is a land of diverse cultures. Every state illustrates distinctly diverse practices and customs but nevertheless there is a common thread that binds all Indians. This common factor is reflected in the way of thinking, living and even dressing to some extent. While Sarees are most prevalent amongst Indian women regardless of which state she belongs to, Dhotis are the traditional Indian attire for men that used to be widely worn by Indian men, at least once upon a time if not now. Today, thanks to changing lifestyles, the Dhoti is just restricted to religious and traditional events including festivals.
Even though Dhoti is the traditional attire for Indian men, it is worn in different ways in different parts of India. The different styles of wearing the
Dhoti is evident even now when during festivals such as Sankranti, Pongal, Durga Puja, Navratri, etc men all over India pick a Dhoti and wear it in a style that is native to the region they belong to. Sankranti is one of the Indian festivals that make men pick a traditional Indian Dhoti as opposed to some stylish Designer Outfits. The main reason for this being Sankranti or Pongal has a very traditional appeal in terms of celebrations and rituals. Being a harvest festival, Sankranti has a very ethnic and rustic touch to it. Men opt for pristine white Silk Dhotis or Cotton Dhotis and pair it with Angavastram, Kurtas or even shirts depending upon the native style or preference during Sankranti that spans over two or three days. Dhotis chosen for Sankranti are most often Silk Dhoti, Cotton Dhoti, Art Silk Dhoti, Silk Cotton Dhoti, etc in shades of white featuring thin or bold zari and resham woven pattern along the border. Simple and traditional, such Dhotis help bring out the rich cultural flavour of an Indian festival such as Sankranti!
