A Feminine Royalty of Awadh: Gharara (غرارہ)

Fashion terms can be confusing, so let’s make it easier for us to decode them. 

Often we get confused between a Sharara and its cousin, Gharara.  Lucknow is not only famous for its Chikankari work but also is famous for its royal heritage of Gharara.

Born in the Awadh, Gharara is the most traditional form of outfit comprising a short or knee-length kurti, a dupatta, teamed with a pair of wide-legged palazzo and is also a common ethnic wear worn by the Muslim women of North India, South Asia and most popularly in Pakistan.

Origin:

Some say the Gharara first came to the fashion scene during the Mughal Era and was fairly popular in North India.  Finally, it was introduced in the Awadh region of Uttar Pradesh late in the 19th century.  

Emerging from the ethnic soils of Lucknow, the Gharara was a part of the everyday attire amongst the Muslim women of the Hindi Belt. 

Styles

This broad-legged ethnically flared pant is donned along with a traditional kurti that reaches a little above the thigh area, and an intrinsically designed and embroidered veil which is traditionally known as dupatta. This brocaded outfit enhances the glamour of the wearer, spreading a royal and a rich spirit.

It is heavily embroidered with skilled craftsmanship of Zardozi and Zari detailing, and studded with different decorative elements, which enhances the glamour quotient of the outfit by several notches.

Lets clear the doubt clouds!

Gharara is not a Farshi Pajama

 The differentiating factors between the two garments are the length and design of the top and the bottom. The word comes from Farsh or the ground, which the gharara trails on.

Gharara is not a Sharara

Sharara is pair of trousers/pants that are fitted from the waist to the knees.

Fun Facts:

A Gharara is always made with 12 meters of fabric.

The most authentic ghararas are still made in Lucknow.

Relationship of Gharara with Bollywood

The stylish and very glamorous gharara, have come a long way to become more chic and snazzier. Fashion designers and artisans are constantly working to add extra sassiness and more glitz to these styles. We are all floored with these trendy ethnic styles.

Do let us know in the comments below, your views about the comeback of this trend.