Embroidery and Plain Saya-Kurta-Izar for Bohra Mumineen |
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Embroidery and Plain Saya-Kurta-Izar for Bohra Mumineen |
The Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community is unified and distinguished by its unique attire, called Libas al-Anwar. It includes a white and gold topi (cap) and a white outfit called saya kurta for men and a two-piece dress called rida for women, recognisable by its bright colours and designs. Bohra attire is inspired by Islamic principles and as for most cultures and civilisations throughout history, Bohra dress has physical, psychological, social and spiritual significance.
The features of Libas al-Anwar reflect both the Islamic philosophy of libas as well as the culture and history of the community. For men, Libas al-Anwar comprises a white, three-piece outfit: kurta, a form of long tunic; saya, a robe-like overcoat slightly longer than the kurta; and izar, loose-fitting trousers. Men’s topi, a crocheted white cap with a border of golden zari arabesque design, is an essential feature of the attire.
For women, Libas al-Anwar signifies the rida, a unique form of hijab, which is comprised of two outer garments: a pardi, which covers the body from the head to the waist, with the headpiece including a flap which is often folded to one side to allow a woman’s face to be visible; and a ghagra, a loose, flowing skirt from the waist to the ankles. It is distinct from other forms of hijab due to its bright, varying colours and decorative designs and borders. Before they come of age, young girls wear a two-piece jhabla izar, short decorated tunic and slacks, at religious gatherings, paired with a colourful topi or headscarf.
Because different occasions call for different dress codes, Libas al-Anwar is also a means of expressing joy, grief or devotion. On celebratory occasions, one would see an elaborately designed rida or a fully golden topi along with embroidered embellishments on the saya kurta, also called fakhir malabis. On solemn occasions such as Ashara Mubaraka, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husain, plain clothing is worn by all mumineen in keeping with the atmosphere of mourning.
For the Dawoodi Bohras, Libas al-Anwar represents their heartfelt dedication to their faith, community and the teachings of their leader, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin. This expression of commitment and love has indelibly shaped the community’s identity throughout the world.
Source:thedawoodibohras.com