пятница, 18 января 2013 г.

Traditional Methods For Using The Turban Hat

By Annabelle Newton


The vast deserts of Rajasthan, India hold a dark history. Once ruled by the merciless Rajput kings, Rajasthan is now a desert that speaks of despicable poverty and misery. The fading ruins and turban hat are all that remind us of this ancient history. The hat, traditionally known as pagari or safa is now a common piece of head gear, not only in India and Middle East, but all over the world. This classy piece of cloth speaks of a strong Indian heritage, tradition and culture. Other than that, it had numerous uses in society.

Its most prevalent and well known use is as a hat. The traditional piece of cloth is a common fashion statement for men in India and other Middle East nations. When donned on the head, it signifies the caste, class or profession. This piece of clothing is part fashion wear in India and is commonly seen in weddings, funerals, graduation parties among other occasions.

In reference to religion, the type safa is used to show the denomination of some individuals. For instance, Sikhs use the headband to cover their long hair. According to the sect, hair is holy and should never be cut. Muslims also wear the safa to signify humility and respect for Prophet Mohammed. The cloth is wrapped around a conical or round cap. A green pagari is an indication of paradise for Muslims, while a white one signifies purity.

With the knowledge that most days in Rajasthan are ruled by the scorching sun, it may puzzle an ordinary man why the need for additional clothing. The answer is simple. At night, the temperatures in the desert fall rapidly and it becomes necessary to have an additional piece of warmth. As the day breaks and the sun rises, the pagari is progressively tied to the upper layers of the head.

During the day, it is not uncommon to see dozens of Rajasthan men sleeping along the roadside or under shades. The cloth suffices as a comfortable makeshift pillow for all who want to rest. Since most pagaris are made of heavy chiffon and muslin fabric, they provide the much needed comfort.

Other than that, the hat can be used as a sack to carry small objects such as pens, tobacco, penknives and money. Being a half nomadic tribe, the people of Rajasthan have to be regularly on the move. In big towns, the headband has gained notoriety as a hiding place for stolen goods such as mobile phones. In restaurants, waiters and attendants utilize the headgear to put their tips.

Since much of Rajasthan is a desert, wells are common. It is possible to find wells that are as deeps as fifteen to twenty meters. Men use their head gear to draw and strain water from the wells. The lengthy piece of cloth is unwound and connected to a metal bucket and used to draw water.

Some ancient tribes used the turban hat as a weapon. The Thugees, a notorious religious sect was revered for their reputation of strangling travelers who crossed their territory. Other than that, it can be used as a sling to throw rocks.




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