The Dying Art Of Turban Tying

By Lela Perkins


The head gear one wears often signifies the traditional, social or cultural boundaries that define them. While it could be restrictive in some of these contexts, in many others it could symbolize breaking free too. The very art of turban tying is something that requires more attention and deeper research. This is what can make its true worth surface above the level of more local knowledge.

Wearing hear gear has, for many centuries, and across cultures, religions and societies, implied kaleidoscopic things. In some cultures or religions, it is a symbol of the rich and reigning. On the other hand, in some regions or societies it may denote the status of the poor and oppressed.

Traditionally, wearing the cloth on the head is considered ceremonious by itself. Carried out amid dancing, music and colorful display of colors, it forms part of a huge celebration or a wedding. The more prestigious the occasion, the brighter are the colors and the more dazzling are the pieces.

On the other hand, there are also some societies wherein the head gear is an essential. It must be worn daily to protect the head from heat, sweat and daily toil. It shows, therefore, the turmoil of the less fortunate man. It could also have a religious aspect to it and then it stands for the position and status one holds on society.

While the above discussion centers on turbans for men, there are also many regions where women are seen donning them too. Many assume it also relates to the level of hierarchy among them. Many believe it stands for their honor and beliefs. Whichever be the case, they may differ from the ones worn by men in many ways.

Tying one of these suave pieces of clothing, if not learnt early by those who must wear them daily, could result in difficult situations. These could range of loss of face in public to harsh chastisement at home. While for the rich and affluent, there are servants who tie the cloth, the lesser fortunate must learn to do so themselves.

Many of the latter also go ahead and make a career of this art. Playing by the cards that it is a dying one, there are opportunities galore for such people. They venture into cities that are influenced by this tradition but lack the skill sets required to follow it to the very last detail.

These events could be gatherings for an event, or a traditional wedding. Either way, for the men, often, a band of professionals is hired to tie these beautiful pieces. Many rural folk who realize the value of this move to bigger cities with their knowledge and dreams of carrying forward a tradition.

Not only, thus, can turban tying emerge as a profession or means of livelihood, but also as a strong means of keeping alive a custom. This custom, if not practiced regularly, may soon be forgotten and only read about in books.




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