Headgear means different things to different people, it can be formal or informal, it could be used to keep you safe from the sun or rain and as a form of protection from injuries at construction sites or sports activities.
When we think of headgear we associate it with caps, hats, helmets, scarves, hoods etc. and every country has its own unique and distinctive headgear that is worn according to the customs and traditions followed through the centuries.
India is a country where your headgear is used by a particular community, it is an indicator of whether you belong to a particular religion, region, class, status and economic wellbeing.
Furthermore, headgear is made from different types of fabric and cloth material such as cotton,wool, polyester, nylon etc. with designs that give it a distinct outlook.
Headgear includes traditional or western wear such as hats, caps, turbans, etc. for men and women cover their heads with scarves.
We are all familiar with the turban and we assume that it is only worn by the people of Punjab, the reality is that there are different types of turbans worn in different parts of India.
2. Rajasthan is also known for its turbans which are brightly coloured and attention grabbing, they add to the personality of the individual and helps them to stand out from the crowd.
3. Himachal Pradesh is famous for its caps, they are present in different colours such as red and green, they are comfortable to wear and give the wearer a dignified appearance.
4. Ladakh is a place that is overlooked, it has a special headgear worn by the women that is called Perak, it is one of a kind and is unusual in appearance that gives it a rare and distinct look that is not found anywhere else in the world.
5. Maharashtra has its own version of headgear called Pheta, it is saffron in colour and comes with unique patterns that represent different regions of the state.
6. If you visit the Eastern state of Assam, you will find the Japi, it is a type of headgear that is shaped in the form of a triangle and is worn to keep you cool while traveling outdoors.
7. Nagaland in Northeast India wear what is called the Warrior hat, it is made from the hair of animals, dyed in different colours and is worn to celebrate special occasions.
8. In South India, the people of Mysuru wore Peta turbans that were a status symbol, they were designed with precious stones and gold and only few people were allowed the opportunity to wear these turbans on special occasions.
9. Those who follow Islam, wear a distinct headgear called Imamah, it is found in different colours but mostly it is worn in black or white colour and differs from place to place.
To conclude, the traditional headgears have been there with us for a long time, they serve a purpose and we must learn to preserve and respect something that is part of our heritage.
