Costumes and Ornaments of Chamba

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Nowhere else in India the costumes and ornaments of the tribals are so exotic, colourful and divergent as in Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, because Chamba has remained secluded and remote for centuries, and it was able to preserve its rich art and cultural heritage. This book presents a study of ‘Costumes and Ornaments’ of Chamba, which has attracted scholars, writers, adventurers and foreign visitors to its fascinating fold. Chamba lies in the valleys or Ravi and Chandrabhaga rivers and their tributaries in the seclusions of north-western Himalaya. In each tehsil of Chamba live the tribal communities which can be distinguished by their peculiar style and customs, costumes and ornaments and also by their folklore. The dress-style is peculiar to each community–Gaddis, Gujjars, Pangwalas, Churahis, Chambyals, Bhattiyals and Gurkhas. The chapters of present volume aptly catalogue, classify and analyse the costumes and ornaments of various communities of Chamba. The influences on their dress-style hae also been hinted at. The sophistication, quality and richness of the special woollen cloth and how it is spun and woven on the homelooms is discussed in detail. Distinction is also made in the dress-habits of various groups. Likewise the design and peculiarity of each ornament is discussed. 90 coloured and black & white photographs of various costumes and ornaments are included in this book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kamal Prashad Sharma

Born in Chamba town of Chamba district (H.P) in the year 1934, Kamal Prashad Sharma is firmly rooted in the culture of Chamba to which he belongs. He has instinctive interest and commitment for matters of History, Art and Culture of this region. That explains his enthusiasm and relentless efforts for collecting materials and information which is fast disappearing and getting lost. He was primarily connected with the medical profession and has now retired from the job, but not retired from the creative work he has undertaken in his hand, i.e., â€˜exploring and preservingâ€™ the Art and Cultural aspect of the region. His profession in the government job provided him ample opportunities of touring the places situated far and wide and meeting the people of different parts of the state. He has written a couple of books on various aspects of Chamba culture, besides many papers and articles. He is also a moving spirit behind such cultural activities of Chamba, as the theatre, folk dances and other performances and film making which have since been telecast on the television. Valuable material regarding history, culture, religious understanding of this region has now been put together in this book.