Proudly presents ..., a photo from Rajasthan, Ouest

Photographer's Note

This friendly man was very proud of his turban.
We met him in Ranakpur Jain Temple.

The shape, size and color of turbans vary, with the cloth's length being up to 45 meters. In some areas, especially in Rajasthan the turban's size may indicate the position of the person in society.

In Hindi, an Indian Language, a turban is called a pagdi.

There are many variations of the traditional headdress, depending on the region and religion. In fact, it is said that, in Rajasthan the style of the turban changes with every 15 km you travel. The Rajput turbans are different from Sikh turbans, which are in turn different from the classical Arab turbans. The Sikh pagdi is also called dastar, which is a more respectful word in Punjabi for the turban.

"Royalty" in different parts of India have distinctly different styles of turbans, as do the "Peasants" who often just wear a towel wound round the head.

ameyer, kevinos, Guntram, apache trouve(nt) cette note utile

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ameyer (47) 2005-07-23 9:45

This is a fine portrait. It is very simple, honest, and direct. If only you knew this man's address you could send him a print and I bet he would be very pleased with it.

Your notes about it are excellent. Thank you.

kevinos (7517) 2005-07-23 11:53

Wow Wishnu! anither great portrait; a great face and a great turban. The colour and shaprness are lovely. It would have been even better if it were less straight on, that is, the head straight, face looking straight forward into the camera.But it's an impressive picture and a useful record. regards Kevin

apache (1426) 2005-08-08 15:00

Hi Wishnu,
I like the turban too...and the look of happiness on his face. Most people in India like to be photographed...like him..:) and it shows on their faces. A nice potrait shot though it could have been sharper and a bit less grainy.
Ranjith