Tripura - Rignai, Risa, and Rituku
- Nidhi Shegokar
- Aug 30, 2023
- 2 min read
The handloom and handicrafts of Tripura showcase remarkable beauty. The people of Tripura, known as Tripuris, possess innate artistic talents that shine through their exceptional handloom and handicraft skills. Their creations are renowned both within and beyond Tripura's borders. Unfortunately, due to a lack of modern practice and inadequate government support, many of these traditional skills have been gradually forgotten. However, with the right opportunities, Tripura could have emerged as a global hub for cane products, potentially earning significant foreign currency through the export of these exquisite handicrafts and handloom products.
Handloom has been an integral part of Tripuri households throughout history. While traditional attire has evolved, the women of Tripura continue to wear their traditional Rignai, a lower body garment, with pride. This attire is composed of three components: Rignai, Rikutu, and Risa.
Rignai, covering the lower half of the body, has evolved into the Indian sari. It boasts numerous intricate designs, some dating back 4000 years. The lengths and widths of Rignai are tailored to the wearer's height, and it serves various purposes, including daily wear, ceremonial use like weddings, and even as mats or carpets for guests.
Rikutu is a garment covering a substantial portion of the body, worn in different styles depending on the occasion or season. It serves as a shawl in colder months and is integral to Tripuri customs like the Chandua, where it's used to create an alluring entryway for homes during special events.
Risa, similar to a modern bra, covers the chest area. It comes in various beautiful designs, each with its own significance. Traditionally, the "RISA SORMANI" celebration marked the transition of young girls into adolescence, during which they received their first Risa. This event was marked by festivity, prayer, and dance.
Each of these clothing components carries cultural significance, serving not only as attire but also as symbols of identity, celebration, and honor. However, these traditions are at risk of fading away due to a lack of preservation efforts and government support. If revived and promoted, these unique skills and creations could not only preserve Tripura's rich heritage but also contribute to economic growth through the recognition and trade of its distinctive handloom and handicraft products.