The Mekhela Chador, also known as the Mekhela Sador, is much more than a beautiful piece of clothing; it is an emblem of rich Assam culture, history and artistry. For hundreds of years, this traditional costume has become a part of Assamese identity, carrying elements of elegance, practicality and craftsmanship within its design. Unlike other garments, the Mekhela Chador has survived as a cherished badge of pride for the people of Assam.
History and Cultural Essence of Mekhela Chador
The Mekhela Sador finds its roots in the ancient traditions of Assam. Historical records and folk tales suggest that weaving tradition dates back to pre-Vedic times, as found in texts like Kautilya’s Arthashastra. The Mekhela Chador evolved as a separate attire during these early periods and since then has been associated with Assamese culture.
The Mekhela Chador consists of two major pieces of fabric:
- Mekhela: A long, wrap-around cylinder skirt worn from the waist downwards, which folds and tucks itself for an elegant appearance.
- Chador: A drape over the upper torso, which mostly creates styles over the shoulder.
This combination is unique and versatile, offering both comfort and sophistication. Unlike sarees, which require pleats and a blouse, the Mekhela Chador offers simplicity in draping while retaining its aesthetic appeal.
The Sacred Role of Mekhela Chador in Assamese Culture
In Assam, the Mekhela Chador often symbolises blessings, respect and heritage in various social and religious ceremonies.
Life Events and Rituals
From weddings to baby showers, the Mekhela Sador is woven into the fabric of life’s milestones in Assam. Brides wear Mekhela Chadors made from luxurious Muga silk, replete with intricate motifs of gold. During the festival of Bihu, women clad themselves in Mekhela Chadors in vibrant colours and floral designs to represent the spirit of joy and camaraderie.
Generations Passed Down as Heirlooms
Many families in Assam consider Mekhela Chadors as family heirlooms and pass them down to the next generation. Not only are such garments full of threads, but, instead, they are full of stories, memories and blessings, which makes them a priceless treasure.
The Weaving Process: A Labour of Love
The artistry behind the Mekhela Chador lies in its weaving, which is labour-intensive and requires immense skill, patience and creativity. Every Mekhela Chador is handcrafted and unique.
Assamese artisans use traditional Taat Xaal to weave Mekhela Sadors. First, they select raw materials such as cotton, Eri silk, Muga silk and pat silk. The colours in which the threads are prepared derive from flowers, roots and herbs, which are eco-friendly and non-toxic. The weaver then meticulously creates patterns and motifs on the fabric. Common motifs include:
- Jaapi: This conventional Assamese cap is a symbol of safety and prestige.
- Kolki: Paisley motifs signify fertility and development.
- Nature motifs: These include flora, creepers, birds and rivers.
The Long-Winded Craft
The length of time to craft an individual handloom Mekhela Chador could run into weeks or months according to the intricacy level of the design. Time-consuming and precision-intensive craft ensures a product of such high artistry is indeed a tribute to the human skill and mastery.
The Fabric Variety of Mekhela Chador
Cotton Mekhela Chador
The Mekhela Chador, made from cotton, has the characteristics of being extremely light and thin, highly breathable and easy to maintain. Such Mekhela Chadors are highly suitable for casual and semi-formal wear, as most of them carry simple elegance.
Muga Silk Mekhela Chador
Muga silk, indigenous to Assam, is prized for its durability and natural golden sheen. Mekhela Chadors made from Muga silk are usually reserved for weddings, festivals and other grand occasions. The fabric not only looks luxurious but also becomes softer and glossier with each wash, making it a timeless treasure.
Pat Silk Mekhela Chador
The white and creamy texture of Pat silk is one of the hallmarks of traditional Assamese silk. A popular choice for festivities, the silk Mekhela Chadors are embellished with elaborate designs and dyed in bright colours.
Eri Silk Mekhela Chador
Eri silk has also been called the “fabric of peace” for its sustainable and cruelty-free feature. The Mekhela Chadors are made from the fabric of Eri silk and are very soft, warm and perfect for cooler climates; they give a subtle sophistication to daily wear.
Mekhela Chador as a Sustainable Fashion Choice
The handmade Mekhela Chador is a symbol of ethical and environmentally conscious fashion in an age when fast fashion is reigning. Buying a Mekhela Chador is a great way to show your support for the artisans who put their souls into making these one-of-a-kind garments.
The manufacturing process of Mekhela Chadors employs thousands of weavers, the majority of whom are women. When purchasing, making direct contact with the artisans or purchasing from online platforms such as Indiahandmade.com allows the direct benefit of fair compensation and preserves this culture for ages to come.
Handloom Mekhela Chadors are often produced using organic fibres and dyes. Thus, these are the more eco-friendly alternatives when compared to synthetic, mass-produced clothes. The carbon footprint in the handloom process is also at a minimum, and thus, it is eco-friendly.
Modern Look of Mekhela Chador
With designers playing around with the outfit, giving it a modernistic approach but at the same time retaining its originality, one is able to style this piece of attire in multiple ways.
Gone are the days when Mekhela Chadors used to be worn only with traditional blouses. These days, women pair them with modern crop tops, halter necks and even jackets, creating a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Statement jewellery and high heels add to the style, making it perfect for parties, office events and casual outings.
Interestingly, the Mekhela Chador not only appeals to women but has also caught the imagination of designers in terms of the use of fabric and patterns in the creation of men’s garments, such as shirts, kurtas and jackets that reflect Assamese craftsmanship.
Platforms like Indiahandmade.com are revolutionising Mekhela Chadors’ distribution method. These websites connect artisans directly with their potential buyers, offering a carefully filtered catalogue of genuine, handmade Mekhela Chadors.
How to Care for Your Mekhela Chador?
A Mekhela Sador is not just a garment but an investment in its beauty and longevity. Here are a few tips to keep your garment in excellent condition:
- Cleaning: To maintain the texture and colour of cotton Mekhela Chadors, wash them by hand in a gentle detergent. Silk Mekhela Chadors, on the other hand, are best dry-cleaned.
- Storage: Keep your Mekhela Chador in a cool, dry place. Use muslin or cotton cloth to drape it to avoid moisture buildup.
- Ironing: Use low heat to iron the cotton fabric. Silk must be ironed with steam to avoid damaging the fragile fibres.
Global Appeal of Mekhela Chador
The Mekhela Chador has the potential to become a global fashion statement, representing the craftsmanship and cultural richness of Assam. With its unique design, vibrant patterns and sustainable nature, it has caught the attention of designers, celebrities and influencers. Mekhela Chadors have been showcased at cultural festivals, Assam Day and international fashion events from the start, and they have garnered appreciation from people all over the world.
Embrace Tradition with Mekhela Chador
The Mekhela Chador is not just an article of clothing; it is a tapestry woven with Assam’s history, artistry and culture. Whether it is for special occasions or to promote sustainable fashion, the Mekhela Chador will be the right choice.
By investing in a handcrafted Mekhela Chador, you bring home a piece of Assamese heritage while empowering the artisans who keep this tradition alive. Shop now at Indiahandmade!
