Situated in northeastern India, Meghalaya is often called, "The abode of clouds." Rich in folklore, this state is said to have come into being from a combination of celestial and earthly lineage- nine families from heaven and seven from earth. Today, there exist a number of indigenous populations and the prominent among them are the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo, who carry on their own age-old traditions and cultural garb that help define their identity.

Men's Traditional Wear in Meghalaya

The traditional wear for men varies from tribe to tribe, although some similarities may be found between the Khasi and Jaintia types. It is common for men to wear a piece of unstitched cloth, much like a dhoti, wrapped around the waist. This is paired with a jacket or shirt that is sometimes embroidered. At special occasions like Ka Pom-Blang Nongkrem or Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem, men wear grand silk turbans and brandish swords in pride.

Garo men wear a loincloth woven with patterns. Though these days worn mainly during cultural or religious occasions, in the eyes of the Garos, they still remain an honorable glint in the eye of tribal pride.

Women’s Traditional Dress in Meghalaya

1. Jainsem

This is an ancient traditional costume worn by the women of the Khasi and Jaintia communities. It is made with mulberry silk, layered, and elegantly draped. A cotton shawl called tap-moh khlieh is usually draped over it, maintaining a refined look with an air of modesty.

2. Kyrshah

During the farming feast or harvest time, the Jaintia women wear a checkered headwrap called Kyrshah. They prefer velvet bodices and wraparounds that reach the ankle, called Thoh Khyrwang. These attires are engaged with traditional jewelry of gold or silver, most conspicuously the notable gold pendant called Kynjri Ksiar.

3. Jainkup

Elderly women of the Jaintia clan will prefer to wear a full-sleeved woolen blouse with intricate lace embroidery around the neck-line known as Jainkup. It is normally worn with traditional ornaments of red coral necklaces, white bead chains, and intricate headgear of gold or silver.

4. Dak Manda

Among the Garo women, Dak Manda is the name given to a handwoven lungi or cloth wrapped around the waist. In the cities, women prefer to wear long cotton dresses while in the villages, an eking consists of a minimum cloth is worn. They also adorn brass earrings (Nadongbi nr sisha), upper lobe decorations (Natapsi), and barrel-shaped beaded necklaces (Ripok), particularly on festive occasions.

Wedding Attire of Meghalaya

On their wedding day, Khasi brides wear Jainsem or Dhara—both made from saffron or yellow mulberry silk. Their attire includes a stunning gold or silver crown with a pointed tip at the back and colorful fabrics draped over both shoulders. Grooms wear a traditional sleeveless jacket known as Jymphong, adorned with red cock motifs and gold or silver embellishments. The lower body is covered in a silk cloth called Jainboh, and a red-yellow turban called Jainspong completes the look.

Conclusion

Despite having distinct clothing styles, the tribes of Meghalaya are united by their love for tradition and culture. While men typically reserve traditional attire for festivals, many women continue to embrace these cultural garments daily. Their vibrant outfits and meaningful accessories beautifully reflect Meghalaya’s timeless heritage.