GHAGRA CHOLI

THE GHAGRA choli is popular with south Indians because of its appearance and modern look when compared to the old and traditional `pattu' skirt, blouse and odini. Comfortable to wear, it is also suitable for the weather of the south. It can be worn practically for any occasion - temple visits, festivals, parties and weddings. And you can drape the dupatta anyway and anywhere you want to. IT IS becoming popular in South India just what with several actresses sporting them. Most of my South Indian friends are opting for the ghagra choli as part of the trousseau, especially for the reception. GHAGRA CHOLIS are in vogue in a new Indo-western avatar in South India. Here the ensemble has taken a turn into an elegant ensemble--long skirts teamed with backless and off shoulder cholis and a stole or small dupatta. INDIA IS a symbol and embodiment of multi-culturalism. Keeping with the tradition, the dandiya is not the only excuse for the ghagra to be worn. It even seems to be the favourite among non-resident Indians.THE ENSEMBLE has caught on for sure over the past 2-3 years. Earlier people were into saris but now they are definitely fitting in ghagra choli in their wardrobe. Sabyasachi and Tarun Tahiliani are sought after for their ghagra cholis here.

THE POPULARITY of any dress depends mainly on three factors - affordability, acceptability and non-interference with the native dress culture. When it comes to acceptability and culture, the ghagra choli cannot be an alternative to the sari choli, which gives our women their cultural identity.

Because of the heavy brocade work the dress looks elegant but the costs are prohibitive. Besides it's too grand for certain occasions.

North Indian families in the south wear it but stretching its popularity to the whole of the south is not true. THE PUNJABI suit is definitely more popular in the south than the ghagra choli. The ghagra choli does not suit all, only girls of a particular age and personality. It is not as comfortable or as adaptable as the Punjabi suit especially when it comes to college girls. Therefore it is not as popular in the south as some make it out to be.