duppata

A duppatta (also dupatta) is a long scarf or shawl that forms an essential part of traditional South Asian dress. It is commonly worn with outfits such as the salwar kameez, lehenga, or sometimes a saree, and is typically draped over the shoulders, around the neck, or over the head. The term derives from Hindustani, with origins in Persian, and reflects its role as a covering or adornment.

Duppattas are made in a wide range of materials, including cotton, chiffon, georgette, silk, and jamdani. They may be plain or heavily decorated with embroidery, prints, or embellishments. Common decorative techniques include zari or gota borders, zardozi or resham thread work, mirror work, and traditional handicrafts such as phulkari or bandhani patterns. The size commonly ranges from about 2 to 2.5 meters in length and 0.5 meters in width, though styles vary by region and occasion.

Draping styles vary by region and occasion but generally serve modesty, adornment, and fashion purposes. A dupatta can be placed across the chest and over the head, slipped over one shoulder, or wrapped around the neck and worn loose. In formal settings, a heavily embroidered or heavily fringed dupatta may be used as a focal accessory, while everyday wear often features simpler versions.

Regional variations and names exist, such as odhani or odhani in parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, or chunri in some communities. In contemporary fashion, dupattas are also used as style statements in South Asian and global fusion outfits.

Care practices depend on fabric and embroidery; delicate materials and ornate work are often dry-cleaned, while simpler cotton dupattas may be hand-washed.