Dhaka- The forgotten story

Nepalese lifestyle has its own uniqueness , tradition and culture. One of the most significant part of our culture is the Dhaka (fabric). Nepalese men wear Dhaka topi on their head as a symbol of pride and as a part of national dress. Women have been using the fabric in so many forms like blouses and shawls. Dhakas were traditionally made by the hand looms reflecting traditional hand weave. The origins of Dhaka goes beyond hundreds of years. The spinning wheel and the weaving loom were used to create the patterns, colors, designs and prints which was of high significance back then. But due to modernisation and globalisation, hand looms are replaced by the machines. Dhaka has been overshadowed by the fancy clothes and fabrics available on the market today. Amidst of all the foreign influence, Dhaka fabric has remained a merry forgotten tradition.  The symbol that carried legacy, values and traditions is somehow in the verge of losing its identity. Like everything, the production of Dhaka has also been evolving since time to time. In earlier days , fabric was made from pure raw yarn that was dyed and woven whereas now polyester is being used. Hand looms are replaced by machines imitating the original look of the fabric offering a much cheaper version of Dhaka.

Well, i ain't complaining about the quality or the machinery. Everything does evolve with time. What bothers me is the dooming of our national identity. Occasional appearances on marriages and festivals wont help either. Dhaka needs a serious recognition. I think it will blend very well, with the tribal/ethnic trend. We can see the tribal trend on everything from dresses, maxi skirt, accessories and even wedges. Fashionistas are ready to embrace the bold patterns rocking the bold prints and colors from runways to streets. There are global influences in fashion from all over the world. If Dhaka is seriously revived and introduced with poise, who knows if it becomes the next big thing on the tribal trend!