Introduction
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, nestled in
the Bay of Bengal, are celebrated for their breathtaking natural beauty and
rich biodiversity. Yet beyond the turquoise waters and emerald forests lies a
vibrant cultural mosaic shaped by centuries of isolation, migration, and
adaptation. The costumes of the islands’ inhabitants ranging from indigenous
tribes to mainland settlers offer a compelling glimpse into this diversity.
These attires are not merely garments but expressions of identity, heritage,
and harmony with nature.
Costumes of Indigenous Tribes
The indigenous tribes of the Andaman
and Nicobar Islands have preserved their traditional lifestyles and
clothing practices, often untouched by modernity. Their attire is deeply rooted
in functionality, environmental adaptation, and symbolic meaning.
·
Sentinelese
Tribe: Perhaps the most
enigmatic of all, the Sentinelese people of North Sentinel Island remain completely
isolated. They wear no clothing, a practice that reflects their deep connection
to nature and resistance to external influence.
·
Jarwa
Tribe: Inhabitants of South and
Middle Andaman, the Jarwas wear minimal clothing suited to the humid climate. Their
adornments include shell necklaces, bark-fibre waistbands, and armbands, often
crafted from forest materials.
·
Onges
Tribe: Residing on Little
Andaman Island, the Onges are semi-nomadic and wear simple loincloths. Their
attire is minimal but often decorated with natural elements like leaves and
shells, symbolizing their bond with the environment.
Costume of Shompen Tribe
The Shompens of Great Nicobar Island are
among India’s least-known tribes. Their clothing is rudimentary often just a
piece of cloth tied around the waist crafted from forest materials. Their
attire reflects their nomadic lifestyle and self-sufficiency, with little
influence from external cultures. The simplicity of their garments underscores
their deep-rooted traditions and isolation.
Costume of Great Andamanese Tribe
Once a populous tribe, the Great Andamanese
now number only a few dozens. Historically, their attire included bark garments
and shell jewelry. Today, while some members have adopted modern clothing,
traditional elements like handmade accessories and natural dyes still feature
in ceremonial wear, preserving their cultural legacy.
Costume of Nicobarese Tribe
The Nicobarese are more integrated into
contemporary society than other tribes. Their traditional attire includes
wraparound skirts for women and lungis for men, often made from cotton and
adorned with bright patterns. During festivals, they wear elaborately
embroidered garments and headgear, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.
Despite modernization, traditional dress remains a vital part of their
identity.
Costume of Onges Tribe
The Onges, like the Jarwas, wear minimal
clothing suited to their forest-dwelling lifestyle. Their garments are often
made from natural fibres and decorated with shells and beads. These adornments
are not merely decorative they carry cultural significance, marking age,
status, and tribal affiliation.
Costume
of Jarwa Tribe
The Jarwas maintain a strict separation from
outsiders, and their attire reflects this autonomy. They wear bark-fibre skirts
and shell ornaments, which are both functional and symbolic. Their clothing is
designed for mobility and comfort in the forest, and their use of natural
materials highlights their sustainable living practices.
Costume of Sentinelese Tribe
The Sentinelese remain one of the world’s
last uncontacted tribes. Their complete nudity is not a sign of primitiveness
but a conscious cultural choice. It reflects their rejection of external
influence and their deep-rooted traditions. Their adornments, if any, are
likely utilitarian and crafted from natural resources.
Costume of Immigrants in Andaman and
Nicobar Islands
The islands are home to a diverse population
of settlers from mainland India, each bringing their own cultural attire.
·
Bengali
Settlers: Women often wear
sarees in cotton or silk, while men wear dhotis or trousers. Bright color and
traditional patterns are common, especially during festivals.
·
Telugu
and Tamil Communities: These
groups favor traditional South Indian attire sarees with gold borders for women
and veshtis for men. Temple jewelry and jasmine flowers are popular
accessories.
·
Punjabi
Migrants: Salwar kameez and
kurta-pajamas dominate, with vibrant color and embroidery. During celebrations,
women wear lozenges and men don sherwanis.
·
Malayali
Population: The Kerala settlers
wear mundus and kasavu sarees, especially during Onam and other cultural
events. Their attire reflects simplicity and elegance.
Adaptation to Modernization in
Costumes
With increasing connectivity and tourism,
modern clothing styles have permeated the islands. Urban areas see widespread
use of jeans, t-shirts, and western wear. However, traditional attire remains
prominent during festivals, rituals, and community gatherings, preserving cultural
continuity.
Influence of Mainland Culture on
Costumes
Mainland Indian fashion has influenced the
islands through migration and media. Tailored garments, synthetic fabrics, and
fusion styles are now common. Yet, many islanders blend these with traditional
elements, creating a unique sartorial identity.
Sea-Shells and Natural Elements in
Designing Costumes
Shells, tree bark, leaves, and feathers are
integral to tribal attire. These elements are not only decorative but also
carry cultural meanings used in rituals, status symbols, and storytelling. The
use of natural materials reflects the tribes’ ecological awareness and
craftsmanship.
Preservation of Indigenous Practices
Efforts are underway to preserve tribal
cultures, including their clothing traditions. Anthropologists and local
authorities document attire, promote cultural festivals, and support
sustainable livelihoods. Respecting tribal autonomy while fostering cultural
pride is key to preservation.
Diversity in Attires
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a living
museum of cultural diversity. From the bare-bodied Sentinelese to the
saree-clad Bengali settlers, the spectrum of attire reflects a harmonious
coexistence of tradition and modernity. Each garment tells a story of survival,
adaptation, and identity.
Conclusion
The costumes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
are more than just clothing they are expressions of heritage, resilience, and
unity in diversity. Whether woven from bark or stitched in silk, each piece
reflects The Soul
of the Islands. As tourism and modernization continue to shape the region,
preserving these sartorial traditions becomes essential not just for Cultural Pride,
but for honouring the timeless spirit of the archipelago.