INFLUENCE OF THE BRITISH RAJ ON THE ATTIRE AND TEXTILES OF PUNJAB

This is the absorbing story of how the British Raj brought lasting changes in the way people dressed and used textiles in Punjab. Many men became Westernized and followed English fashions to the hilt. Others simply wore Western garments like coats or overcoats along with their kurta and pyjama. Interesting outfits evolved, with both Western and Indian elements. Women’s styles too were impacted, albeit to a lesser degree. As Western accessories made an entry, Indian ornamentation retreated. New fabrics and materials were appreciated and accepted. These, along with Western techniques and motifs, even appeared in the form of household items, to complement the new furnishings and ways of living.