Thursday, January 17, 2013

Traditional Methods For Using The Turban Hat

By Annabelle Newton


The origin of the turban hat is found in the deserted plains of Rajasthan, rural India. This traditional headpiece is almost all that reminds us of the heritage of the once great Rajput monarchy. Safa, as the turbans are traditionally referred to, is a colorful, beaded piece of cloth that heralds the strong Indian culture. The pagari, an alternative name, is a long colorful cloth that was usually worn on the head by men. Other than its aesthetic appeal, the safa has other uses.

Most people know the safa as a traditional Middle Eastern hat. When worn on the head, it is a symbol of caste and class. It shows that the wearer demands respect and shows their place in life. Colored hats with intricate bead work may signify fun and vitality and are likely to be donned by young men. Older men show affluence by wearing safas with a single color and expensive fabric.

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.

It is a common sight in Rajasthan to find individuals sleeping during the day or shading from the scorching sun. In such cases, the ten meter cloth is unwound from the head and used as a makeshift pillow. The material used to make the cloth is soft and cozy and is bound to provide a solace from the harsh weather conditions.

Traditional men use the headpiece to carry small objects that they cannot do without. In this case, the hat serves as a pocket. In it, you can find items such as knives, tobacco, money or pens. In towns, the headband has become a hiding place for pick pockets and small time thugs. Waiters, bartenders and restaurant attendants use the hat to conceal their tips.

Furthermore, the cloth is useful in drawing water from underground wells. It is difficult to find terrestrial sources of water in a hot desert such as Rajasthan. The men tie buckets to the unfolded pagari and use it to fetch water for domestic use, irrigation and for animals.

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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