People Of Rajasthan
In olden days, the profession of the people decided their caste. This system has now been broken. Today, individuals have the freedom to opt for any profession irrespective of caste. The profession based caste system has now been transformed into birth-based caste system. People of various castes and sub-castes reside in Rajasthan. The Rajasthanis are sturdy, cheerful and simple folks relatively untouched by the fast pace of modern times making Rajasthan one of the safest destinations anywhere in the world. Rajasthan according to the 2001 census has a population of 56.5 million. Muslims form less than 10% of the population and most of them are Sunnis. There is also a small but affluent community Shiaite Muslims known as Bhoras in Southeastern Rajasthan.
Ornaments
The use of ornaments dates back to the prehistoric times. With the passage of time, new designs and varieties replace the old ones but still there are ornaments which were used in the past and are still used in the present. Both men and women wear ornaments; however, with time, men are giving up the use of ornaments. The ornaments of gold and silver are more prevalent in Rajasthan. There are certain ornaments which are used by men. In daily use the ladies wear normal ornaments of neck, hand, nose and ear but on special occasions and social functions. Women wear all the ornaments adorning different parts of the body to look beautiful and attractive. For its exquisite designs and fine craftmanship, Rajasthan Jewelry is a rage not only among Indian ladies but also for women around the globe.
Costumes Of Rajasthan People
The study of the people of Rajasthan is incomplete without the knowledge of costumes and ornaments. The costumes of the present have the reflections of the costumes of the past. Both men and women dress in the customary dresses fully influenced by climate, economy, status and the profession they are engaged in. The traditional dresses being Potia, Dhoti, Banda, Angrakhi, Bugatari, Pachewara, Khol, Dhabla, amongst Hindus; and Tilak, Burga, Achkan amongst Muslims which are fast changing now with Bushirt, Salwar and Skirts, Saris and Pants accordingly. Turbans, covering the head, are famous in Rajasthan for their grandeur and tradition. Also too clothes express ones personality and tell people which village and caste they belong.
A Lineage Of beautiful Women
Rajasthani women have been renowned for their grace and beauty. Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, was so smitten by the beauty of the legendary Maharani Padmini Devi of Chittaurgarh that he waged a war -in vain - for her hand. In her heydays, the present day Rajmata of Jaipur, Maharani Gayatri Devi, was considered by Vogue to be amongst the Ten Most Beautiful Women in the World. And her charm hasn't diminished one bit till today!
