Discovering Traditional Kerala Textiles and Fashions

Discovering Traditional Kerala Textiles and Fashions

Welcome to God's Own Country, Kerala, where the rich culture and heritage of the state are beautifully reflected in its textiles and fashions. Kerala is not only known for its lush green landscapes, backwaters, and beaches, but also for its vibrant and exquisite traditional clothing. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the traditional textiles and fashions of Kerala and how they play a significant role in the cultural identity of the state.

The Magic of Mundum Neriyathum

The Mundum Neriyathum, also known as the Settu Mundu, is the traditional attire of Kerala women and is a graceful two-piece garment worn on special occasions. The Mundum Neriyathum consists of a Mundu, which is a white cotton cloth with a gold border, and a Neriyathum, which is a matching blouse. The Mundum Neriyathum is woven using traditional handlooms and is available in various colors and designs. It is an epitome of simplicity yet elegance.

The traditional Mundum Neriyathum has evolved over the years, and today we can find designer versions of this attire. Many designers have incorporated intricate and contemporary designs into the Mundum Neriyathum, making it a popular choice for weddings, festivals, and other occasions.

Kasavu Sarees - The Pride of Kerala

No discussion about traditional Kerala textiles can be complete without mentioning Kasavu sarees. Kasavu is a type of golden zari or thread that is woven into the border of the saree, giving it a regal look. These sarees are usually in cream or off-white color and are made from pure cotton or silk. Kasavu sarees are an integral part of Kerala's rich cultural heritage and are worn by women during festivals, weddings, and other special occasions.

The craftsmanship involved in weaving a Kasavu saree is incredible. It takes skilled weavers several days or even weeks to create these masterpieces. The motifs and designs on the sarees often depict traditional Kerala elements like elephants, peacocks, and flowers, adding to their beauty and uniqueness.

Stunning Kerala Jewelry

Along with traditional textiles, Kerala is also renowned for its exquisite jewelry. The jewelry designs from Kerala are distinctive and have a traditional and cultural charm. Women in Kerala adorn themselves with a variety of golden jewelry pieces that complement their traditional attire.

Some of the popular traditional jewelry items worn in Kerala include:

• Mulla Mottu Mala: A necklace made of jasmine bud-shaped gold beads.
• Kaasumala: A long necklace with intricate gold coin pendants.
• Nagapadam: A necklace with gold beads in the shape of a snake.
• Elakkathali: A choker-style necklace with intricate designs.

Kerala jewelry is known for its intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, making it unique and special.

The Timeless Beauty of Kerala Sarees

Apart from Kasavu sarees, Kerala offers a wide range of other traditional sarees that are worth exploring. Some of these include:

• Kuthampully Sarees: Known for their fine cotton fabric and golden zari borders, Kuthampully sarees are a popular choice among women in Kerala. They are lightweight and comfortable, making them perfect for summer.
• Settu Mundu Sarees: Similar to the Mundum Neriyathum, Settu Mundu sarees are elegant and graceful. They are usually woven in bright colors and are worn on special occasions.
• Kasavu Kalli Sarees: Kasavu Kalli sarees are known for their intricate floral designs and are usually worn during festive seasons. They are made from fine cotton and have a golden border.

Kerala sarees are not just garments; they are a representation of Kerala's rich culture and heritage. The sarees are a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making them a favorite choice among women of all ages.

Conclusion

Exploring the traditional textiles and fashions of Kerala is like taking a journey through the rich tapestry of the state's culture and heritage. From the elegant Mundum Neriyathum to the regal Kasavu sarees and the stunning Kerala jewelry, everything about Kerala's traditional clothing reflects the beauty, grace, and history of this enchanting land. So, the next time you visit Kerala, make sure to immerse yourself in its textiles and fashions, and witness the timeless beauty of these traditional treasures.

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