Know all about Indian Panche or Dhoti

'Panche,' another name for Dhoti, is a 4.5m long rectangular piece of cloth. This unstitched fabric is wrapped around the legs and knotted at the waist. Karnataka men dress aesthetically in panche. This outfit exemplifies an ethnic fusion of tradition and modernity. Karnataka men wear panches with shirts on a variety of occasions. Dhoti is popular in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Odissa, Konkan, and Goa in India.

Origin and History

The origin of Panche traces its existence and emergence centuries ago, when temple priests in Karnataka wore this attire, particularly when performing religious and ritualistic pujas and occasions. The traditional colors associated with this traditional attire were pure white or saffron. It was also observed that Mahatma Gandhi wore this outfit on various public occasions, including when he traveled abroad. It was also worn by devotees and priests of the 'Hare Krishna' sect, and later by commoners as this attire became a fashion trend in South India.

Style & Attire

This Karnataka traditional attire is worn by wrapping the dhoti around the hips and tucking the ends to secure it in place. To complete the look, an additional piece of cloth is draped across the body and fastened onto the shoulder with the loose end corners of the cloth. Men sometimes fold the panche in half like the south Indian white lungi to reveal their legs for comfort or while working.

Innovations

With the passing years, the innovative wind of technology has blown over the state of Karnataka. Technological advancements and improvements have undoubtedly turned the textile industries in Karnataka on their heads, propelling the creative ball to new heights. With each passing year, more fabric textures are introduced. To achieve acceptance of the costume from future generations, current priorities are blended with layers of tradition.

More silk has been introduced into the Panche fashion world, which is preferred for most occasions. The Panche is accompanied by the wearers in decorative and stylish kurtas and shirts over cotton vests. Rich colors and delicate embroideries at the borders in gold and silver threads are becoming popular. Cotton versions of these costumes are being considered for daily use in addition to festive and religious occasions. An Angavastram, a cloth made of cotton or silk, is worn with the Panche, which is worn around the neck and covers one shoulder of the body.

Global Presence

Cotton panche is lighter and softer, acting as a soothing factor for the wearer throughout the year, especially during the summers. As a result, people and international markets all over the world readily accept and embrace this outfit.

Wearing Panche

Gold embroidered Thundu (angavastram) is commonly paired with the Panche, as well as Indian mojaris, gold plated watches, rings, and bracelets, glamorising the overall appearance.

Essentially, the bridegrooms of south Indian weddings or the main lead hosting the religious ceremony or pujas must wear this attire as a cultural and traditional symbol. Furthermore, this attire can be worn for special occasions and celebrations. Today, the availability of this attire in a variety of comfortable fabrics makes it easier to wear on a daily basis as well as for semi-formal occasions.

Interesting Facts and Comparisons

South Indian men have a habit of folding the Panche in half, revealing the lower portion of their legs beginning at the knees. However, this style is considered inappropriate, especially in front of the ladies, so the Panche must be worn in a loosened form in front of the elders and ladies, completely covering the legs.

Western jeans and trousers have always been in a competitive league with dhoti attire. However, the traditional and cultural essence of these dhoti costumes, such as Panche, distinguishes itself from the rest.