A gharara (Hindi: ग़रारा, Urdu: غرارہ) or bara paincha is a traditional Lucknowi garment,[1] worn by women in the Indian Subcontinent.[2] It consists of a kurti (a short, mid-thigh length tunic), a dupatta (veil), and most importantly, a pair of wide-legged pants, ruched at the knee so they flare out dramatically. The knee area, called the goat in Hindi and Urdu, is often elaborately embroidered in zari and zardozi work. Each leg of a traditional gharara is made from over 12 metres of fabric,[3] often silk brocade (see Farshi Pajama).
Ghararas originated in the city of Lucknow during the era of the Nawabs. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was considered everyday attire among women of the North Indian Elite Muslims like women folk from Nawab and Taluqedars families. They were representative of the status of the person wearing them. Over time, they gradually fell out of favour, and were replaced by sarees and shalvar qameezes. They are however, still very popular as wedding attire among Muslim brides in India and Pakistan as they reflect a rich cultural tradition and bring a unique elegance to the bride.
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