Robert Naorem has several years under his belt, dressing Manipuri brides to look their traditional best on their wedding days. Also part of his expertise, is continually attempting to ensure that classic Manipuri weaves enjoy some much-deserved national limelight. A post shared by Robert Naorem (@robertnaoremstudio) The latest effort in this regard has been the reported ramp debut of the age-old Manipuri Kumin Potloi with a heavy hand of opulence, courtesy of the 24k karat gold it carried.
Actor Urvashi Rautela had the honour of modelling the same at the Global Fashion Festival 2024. A post shared by URVASHI RAUTELA (@urvashirautela) But what is the Kumin Potloi? Very simply, it is the traditional attire donned by Manipuri Hindu women for important cultural events as well as personal milestones such as when they tie the knot. The lore with regards to the birth of the dress goes back to Vaishnavite Meitei King Rajarshi Bhagyachandra who dreamt up its unique build.
The cylindrical stiff skirt is the focal point of the ensemble, built of bamboo overlaid with satin. This understandably severely restricts movement and hence involves the dress being directly stitched onto the muse prior to its showcase. A post shared by URVASHI RAUTELA (@urvashirautela) An Indian Express report has also decoded the intricate layout of jewellery which represents the headress of the ensemble, rather seminal to the final look.
The central headpiece is called the kajenglei or leitreng while the hair bu.