The gharara – an everyday outfit from the wardrobes of North Indian Muslim women – is back in fashion. But the most prized and longest standing Gharara style is that of a Chatapati Gharara with artistic patchwork done on 12 metres of cloth. Three designs i.e Barfi (rhombus), Mahi Jaal (fish net) and Lehar (wave) have managed to survive in the market. This handwork and time-intensive art can take upto three months for completion of an entire three-piece outfit.
A DECLINING ART
What makes these patchwork ghararas stand out are the intricate detailing. Earlier, the dying of cloth pieces for patches used to be done locally by women. But with no more women left in the trade, the dye work is now done in the Rampur district of Uttar Pradesh and sent back to Lucknow, to be sown together to form an outfit.
With Ghararas taking over the fashion market and making a comeback as a traditional wedding ensemble, it is time you get one. Visit these shops to buy a readymade Chatapati Gharara or place an order for your big event:
HAJI NASEEM & SONS
A 35-year-old shop near Tundey Kababi in Chowk has chatapati ghararas dangling at the entrance, and can be spotted from a distance. Choose your favourite design or place an order with your favourite colour combinations.
Price: Starting at Rs. 4500 for chatapati ghararas.
Location: Opposite Tehseen ki Masjid, Chowk, Lucknow.
Timings: 11 am to 10 pm
CHAUDHARY GOTE WALE
Located just across Haji Naseem and Sons, this shop specializes in ghararas and gota. Visit them to customize your traditional outfits. If you’re lucky they might just deliver your order in a month.
Price: Starting at Rs. 4500 for chatapati ghararas.
Location: Adjacent to Tehseen ki Masjid, Chowk road, Lucknow.
Timings: 11 am to 8.30 pm
MADAN LAL BALLABH DAS
A reputed name in wedding wear, this store doesn’t fail to surprise with its variety and keeping up with the trends. From the basic ghararas to designer wear, get all under one roof.
Price: Starting at Rs. 5,000.
Location: 46, Aminabad Park, Aminabad.
Timings: 11 am to 8.30 pm
NOVELTY CLOTH CENTRE
From fabrics to custom tailoring, Novelty Cloth Centre, is a must visit store if you are thinking of wedding shopping. Find you fit amongst the wide range of Silks, Brocade, Aari- Zardozi and ofcourse Chatapati Ghararas.
Price: Starting at Rs. 5000.
Location: Nazirabad, Vishal Mall lane, Aminabad.
Timings: 11 am to 9.30 pm
NL Tip: Since Chatapati Ghararas are a time consuming affair, we recommend that you place an order well in advance from the wedding season to avoid any last minute running around.
