Potloi (costume)

Potloi wearers performing a cultural dance at Rashtrapati Bhawan
Meitei language film actresses, Bala Hijam (left/behind), Kamala Saikhom (middle) and Soma Laishram (right/front) in different Meitei Hindu bridal costumes, like "Potloi" and ornamental skirt

Potloi or Polloi (literally, "final product" or "end product") is a cylindrical skirt made up of thick fabric that is ornamented with sequins and mirrors.[1] It is usually used by the Meitei Hindu brides in Meitei wedding and the dancers in the Manipuri Rasa Leela dance.[2][3][4][5][6] Notably, it is not used by the brides in traditional (Sanamahist) Meitei wedding.[3]

Interestingly, Radha and Chandrabali wear green potloi and red blouse whereas the Gopis wear red potloi and green blouse in the Manipuri dance.

References

  1. ↑ Bhandari, Vandana; Kashyap, Ruby (1999). Celebrating Dreams: Weddings in India. ISBN 9788172340308.
  2. ↑ Thilakavathy, M.; Maya, R. K. (5 June 2019). "Facets of Contemporary History".
  3. 1 2 "Family in Manipur". 1994.
  4. ↑ Lisam, Khomdan Singh (2011). Encyclopaedia of Manipur (3 Vol.). ISBN 9788178358642.
  5. ↑ Devi, Jamini (2010). Cultural History of Manipur: Sija Laioibi and the Maharas. ISBN 9788183243421.
  6. ↑ "Indian Literature". 2007.