rich, ornate and Exquisite

Diving deep into the rich cultural heritage of Indian Lehenga Choli.

- 

Lehenga is the definition of Indian exquisiteness in its purest form. While the origin of Lehenga is not precisely definitive; it is like the history of not one, but various silhouettes merged to form a beautiful lehenga-choli. The enchanting ensemble adored by brides since ages has its roots in a three-piece attire worn by women in ancient times.

The ensemble consisted of a draped lower garment called Antriya, which was a white or colourful strip of cotton cloth that was passed through the legs and tucked in at the back. Antriya was gender-neutral - also known as the origin of dhoti and lungi. Stone sculptures from the 1st century AD depict the antriya as part of the regular wardrobe of ancient Indians.

The Antriya was paired with the Stanapatta or Bandeau top as we call it now and the Uttariya. It was a kind of veil worn over the head or shoulders. From these early illustrations, it’s quite evident to infer that the Antriya went on to become the stitched Lehenga, the Stanapatta developed into the blouse, and the Uttariya became the dupatta.

The women adorned Lehenga in its rudimentary form until the reign of the Mughals, who brought with them immense influences for early Indian fashion. Lehenga evolved and flourished through fine craftsmanship with the arrival of Mughals.

The cotton fabric became the foundation for the newly found attire, which throughout the time came in printed, embroidered and embellished forms. It was during the reign of the terrific Mughal King, Akbar when artisans used royal fabrics and embroideries like brocade and further evolved the Lehenga into a royal attire.