Ghoonghat or Ghunghat is a Hindi word which describes a veil or headscarf worn by Indian women to cover their head, and often their face. Generally a pallu (the loose end of a sari) is pulled over the head to act as a ghunghat. A dupatta (long scarf) is sometimes used as a ghungat.
The ghunghat varies in styles due to personal choice and tradition. Most ladies cover only the forehead, ears, and eyes; this allows ladies to see through the garment whilst being veiled. A popular style is to pull the fabric from the side of the face and hold it there whilst talking to males; this forms a quick barrier between the speakers and is the most convenient form of the ghunghat.
In very traditional and rural areas, women use their sari to completely cover the face and neck, concealing their identity to males. There is a small minority of women that use the fabric to cover their whole face, bosom, arms, and stomach. This type of veiling is still popular with Hindu brides, and is observed on the wedding day. Many women will use the ghungat as a new bride, until their father-in-law advises to unveil. This is to keep the modesty of the bride.
If the fabric is thick, women cannot see through the material. This poses a health and safety issue, and they usually have to be guided by younger females or peers when out in public.
Traditionally, in some parts of India, women are supposed to wear a ghunghat in front of family elders and men, except husbands and close family members. The ghunghat is used to show respect to elder males of the extended family. In desert areas of Indian and Pakistan, the ghungat is used to keep sand from blowing onto the face.
The ghungat was a popular tradition in the 1950s, and has since steadily declined. There has been a resurge of wearing of the ghungat due to popular Indian soap operas that depict this style. The ghunghat is still used in rural parts of Northern India, especially in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
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