Indian Quiz

From Lahore to Amritsar: The Distinct Fashion Trends of Punjabis

By: Tahreem Gulistan Kokab

Introduction

This study explores Punjabi attire, linking its rich history to modern trends in Pakistani and Indian Punjab. Fashion, a reflection of identity and culture, reveals the region’s shared roots and evolving styles. Through analysis, an exhibition, and a survey, this project highlights Punjab’s vibrant fashion journey and its cultural significance.

Historical Context

Punjab Kingdom

Banda Singh Bahadur Founder of Punjab

Info

Ranjit Singh (1780–1839)

British East India Company

The Mughal Era's Influence On Pakistani Fashion:

In addition to spreading their faith, the Mughals also spread Persian arts and culture. Today, much of Pakistani clothing combines traditional and Mughal elements, reflecting this cultural influence.

British Colonialism Impact On Pakistan's Fashion Sense:

British rule in the 20th century united India's diverse cultures and reshaped its identity, blending Western and traditional fashion. After the 1947 partition, Pakistan struggled to define a distinct cultural identity separate from India.

Major Pakistani Ethnicity After Pakistan's Independence

Info

• Biggest and most populated area with rich culture.

• Defined by culture, language, and geography.

• Roots: Indus Valley Civilization (5th-4th millennium BC).

• Coexistence among Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians.

Punjabi Culture

It encompasses a diverse array of elements, including clothing, poetry, spirituality, weaponry, music, cuisine, language, history, art, and values.

Phulkari : ‘Phul’ (flower) ‘Kari’ (work)

Traditional Punjabi embroidery practiced by women in Pakistan and India to mark significant events. Its origins are debated, possibly Central Asian or Persian-influenced. Phulkari uses silk threads on heavy fabrics like red-dyed khaddar and features motifs of flowers, animals, and geometric shapes.

Types of Phulkari

Chope

Saninchi

Nilak

Suber

Tilpatra

Sheeshadaar

Darshan Dwar

Gunghat Bhag

Fashion Differences Between Indian And Pakistani Punjabis

Differences in Materials and Fabrication Between Indian and Pakistani Punjabis

Pakistani Punjabi fabrics prioritize light, breathable materials like lawn and cotton for everyday wear, ideal for warm climates. Silk, chiffon, and organza are used for formal attire, featuring intricate embroidery for special occasions. Indian Punjabi fabrics emphasize luxurious and decorative materials such as silk, brocade, velvet, and mulmul, often used for celebrations and weddings. Embroidery techniques like Phulkari are shared across both regions, but Pakistani styles are lighter and flowy, while Indian designs are heavier, vibrant, and richly embellished. Fabric production includes weaving, dyeing, and hand embroidery, reflecting the cultural and climatic influences of each region.

Cultural Impact and Influences

Punjabi fashion has evolved significantly, influenced by various cultural channels. Bollywood and Punjabi cinema have prominently showcased traditional Punjabi attire like Patiala suits, lehengas, and Phulkari shawls, increasing their popularity. Punjabi music videos have also played a key role in presenting vibrant and modern takes on traditional fashion, blending contemporary styles with classic elements. Additionally, fashion weeks and global platforms have allowed designers from both Indian and Pakistani Punjab to showcase their collections, further bringing Punjabi fashion to the international stage. This transformation highlights how Punjabi fashion has adapted from regionally inspired clothing to a global trend, while still retaining its cultural roots.

Women's Role In The Fashion Industry

Practical Part

part 1

PART 2

INTERVIEW

part 3

SURVEY

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the vital link between traditional Punjabi clothing and cultural identity, highlighting its role in preserving heritage. Women's contributions in maintaining traditional styles, along with the influence of the Punjabi diaspora, ensure the survival of these traditions. The fusion of tradition and modern fashion reflects cultural resilience in a changing world. The global appeal of Punjabi attire through music, film, and festivals further strengthens its recognition. This study also calls for more awareness of the cultural and historical significance of these garments, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

"Thank you for your attention."

Punjab, persian words ‘‘Punj’’ (five) ‘‘Aab’’ (water) also known as the land of five rivers: This may contain: a map of the region of panj - jab in pakistan with all its major cities

INDUS VALLEY

Extend back over 7,000 years to the Bronze Age. Cotton was first grown in the Indus River Valley, which is now Pakistan and India, about 3,000 BC during the Indus Valley Civilization era. Punjab has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the influence of various civilizations that have ruled the region.

Given to the bride by her maternal grandmother on her wedding day, embroidered with yellow thread on a red background with lotus motifs on the corners.

Embroidered with bright colors such as red and yellow on a dark blue background as the word itself comes from the color blue ‘neela’ dyed with indigo.

The embroidery is done on both edges with yellowish and golden colors, usually used on wedding days as a tradition where the bride’s grandmother gives the dupatta to her.

This features rural life with art, it portrays animals, humans and nature.

Til ‘sesame seed’ embroidered all over the cloth, usually red cloth. Gifted to people who work in a wedding house for the wedding functions.

Known for incorporating small mirrors (sheesha) into the embroidery, usually crafted on cotton or khaddar fabric, making it shine and stand out, especially in festive settings.

Made on thick cotton or khaddar fabric, this Phulkari is embroidered with silk threads (pat) and often presented at religious sites, symbolizing spiritual devotion.

Typically crafted on cotton or silk, this type is used as a bridal veil. The embroidery is done with vibrant silk threads, creating intricate patterns that enhance the elegance of the fabric.