Ghar+Chola – made of two words ‘ghar’ (home) and ‘chola’ (cape/clothing)– the word gharchola literally translates to ‘home apparel’ or the outfit worn at home. However, the contextual meaning of the word is more complex. Here ‘Ghar’ refers to the bride’s new home, her husband’s home. And, ‘Chola’ contextually means her wedding costume. The new bride enters her marital home wearing a Gharchola on her head and shoulders – implying she comes with everyone’s blessings and good wishes.
When two people marry, two families too, invariably, marry! This stands especially true in the context of the Indian marriages, where a bride is traditionally considered the honour and grace of the family she marries into. Also, with marriage, the bride becomes an integral part of her new family – her security and respect, the new family’s responsibility.There are many cultural practices and religious/ ritualistic symbols associated with this integral aspect of Indian society. Gharchola is one of them! This auspicious wedding staple from the Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan has been used since years with this beautiful thought behind it.
