‘Dhotis’ or ‘veshtis’ always evoke images of powerful politicians, good-looking bridegrooms, and solemn family occasions. There is no denying the fact that it has a class of its own and commands respect.

Dhotis are worn in different styles by men not only in India, but also in countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Maldives. In order to encourage the wearing of this traditional costume that is perfectly ideal for the Indian climates, the UNESCO has announced January 6 as World Dhoti Day.

Here are some interesting facts about the costume that has centuries of history behind it:

Keralites love their dhotis

Dhoti is known as ‘Mundu’ in Malayalam. No matter how educated and westernized the men are these days in Kerala, they still love their dhotis and wear it with pride and casual elegance. And, no, it is not a costume reserved for special occasions. Dhotis continue to remain part of their everyday wear.

Tamilians need to get their selective memories refreshed

The scenario is different in Tamil Nadu. We make a huge fuss about Jallikattu, our traditional sport, but we don’t want to talk about our veshtis, our traditional costume.

Many of the Tamil youths don’t even know how to wear dhotis. In fact, most of them wear dhotis for the first time only at their weddings. And, they need assistance to wear it! Fortunately, men in villages still have the habit of wearing dhotis, but the practice is fast disappearing among the younger generation.

The influence of jeans

Despite all the negative effects that tight denim jeans have on men’s health, the costume continues to grow in popularity. The number of youngsters wearing soiled, ripped, and low-hip jeans is increasing day by day.

Politicians

Currently, politicians seem to be the only class that faithfully adheres to dhotis. It has almost become an unofficial uniform of sorts. Khadi shirts and hand-woven dhotis are the most recognizable formal wear, for these politicians, lending them respectability in the eyes of the masses.

Dhotis create jobs and livelihoods. Each time you buy a hand-woven dhoti, you are feeding a weaver and his family.

Agreed, wearing dhoti is not easy. There might even be some embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions in the beginning. But, when westerners who come to India learn it, why can’t we master the art of wearing dhotis today, on the occasion of the World Dhoti Day?