Sharara and Gharara

Sharara and Gharara

A gharara and Gharara is a traditional Lucknowi garment, traditionally worn by Pakistani and North Indian Muslim women in the South Asia. It consists of a kurti (a short, mid-thigh length tunic), a dupatta (veil), and most importantly, a pair of wide-legged pants, ruched at the knee so they flare out dramatically. The knee area, called the goat in Hindi and Urdu, is often elaborately embroidered in zari and zardozi work. Each leg of a traditional gharara is made from over 12 metres of fabric, often silk brocade. Ghararas originated in the city of Lucknow during the era of the Nawabs. Ghararas were very common in Pakistan, in the 1950s and 60s with popular public figures like Fatima Jinnah and Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan wearing them.

Over time, they gradually fell out of favour, and were replaced by sarees and shalvar qameezes. They are however, still very popular as wedding attire among Pakistan as well as Muslim and Sikh brides in Northern India as they reflect a rich cultural tradition that brings a unique elegance to the bride.