What is a prandi?
A Punjabi paranda , also known as a parandi , is a women's hair ornament made of multicoloured silk threads and decorated with floral (bunches) designs and ornamental tassels. The Prandi is a part of ethnic Punjabi clothing and a folk accessory of Punjabi culture.
Parandi is made by interweaving silk threads of different contrasting colours. Women in Punjab were making parandi by themselves as a hobby and art and craft.
Women braid their long hair with parandas matching their costumes, usually ethnic Punjabi clothing. They wear them during folk dances like the Giddha. Young girls and women embrace it on special occasions like marriages and folk festivals such as Lohri, Vaisakhi, Teej, Karva Chauth, etc.
Making parandi took roots long ago in Punjab with Patiala being one of the oldest centers of parandi-making in the country. Women have always been fond of decorating their hair, but since they were supposed to cover their heads, their hair accessories such as golden clips and pins were hardly visible under the dupatta.
Origin and History of Parandi:
Although Parandi has a rich history and culture, little is known about its origins. It’s been said that Parandi was initially worn by women when they didn’t have many accessories to decorate their hair with. In ancient times when fashion was about simplicity and soberness, women used to weave multicoloured threads together and tie them in their hair to make it look pretty and also to make it appear longer.
Punjab is a state full of tradition and culture. With its rich lifestyle, food, artefacts, jewellery, and clothes, Punjab is the most sought-after place not just by tourists but also by the people of India.
The villages in various districts of Jalandhar, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana are solely engaged in the industry of creating and designing these Paranda.
It is also known that the Parandi is a symbol of love, which a bride-to-be gets from the husband, and she braids it around in her hair as a token of love. As a Punjabi tradition, the bride dances wearing the parandi while she mesmerizes her husband and winds and weaves her love in his heart.
Protecting Hair Health:
“Braiding the hair is a good, protective practice that can save your hair from any breakage as it strengthens the hair structurally. A loosely-tied braid can work alongside your body's natural process to boost hair growth.”
It takes care of your hair even while you’re asleep braiding your hair before going to bed can have great results because of the lesser friction produced between the tied hair and the pillow cover.
Braiding helps to lock the moisture into the hair, keeping them moisturised and nourished, you can even oil the hair before braiding the hair for deeper nourishment.
Portability and Convenience:
The portability and ease of the Prandi are further benefits. It is portable thanks to its small size, so you can bring it with you wherever you go. The Prandi is your dependable travel buddy, whether you need to freshen up your hair before a big meeting or are leaving on vacation. The sleek and portable Prandi will take the place of your bulkier hair tools.
Folk to Fashion:
The handmade parandi comes in three segments and is split into layers of woollen and silk threads that can be wrapped around the hair in its original shape. The "Flower" refers to the ornamental ends, the "Flower," the Surahi (top section), and the Angoori (hook that connects the sections). Among other little decorations, the parandi is customarily decorated with multicoloured tassels, jagged-cut mirrors, bunched fabric blossoms, and gota ribbons.
The paranda is shedding its traditional, tasselled reputation to become a new-age accessory. It comes wearing bugle beads, strung with cowrie shells and lined with pearls. Can be added to the cart in a click, and like many accessories rooted in a historic, cultural discourse, is served with a millennial update visible across retail and fashion.
Style:
The Paranda’s are available in various kinds. Each Parandi has its uniqueness and is designed exclusively depending on the occasion. They are not just known for their style and as an accessory but are known for their vibrant colours too.
The Paranda is also worn by the woman during the traditional dance of the state- Giddha.
These trimmings which are soaked in colour are braided in the hair of women; the more exuberant and longer it is, the better. The Paranda is mostly seen being wrapped with a golden ribbon to make it more prominent and visible.
Innovations:
The industry has innovated the way the Paranda is made and used. From the traditional old thread parandas to the custom-made ones. People do not use the common colours and threads but also add on beads, studs, silk threads and many other embellishments to appeal to a wider range of tastes and styles. The different threads that are now used are polyester, recycled fibres of different kinds, firefly yarn, or Nylon.
Global Influence:
Paranda is used by women in India extensively, whether it’s just for fun and fashion or a traditional occasion, their attire stands incomplete without it. It is appealing to people worldwide as well owing to its bright colours and unique designs. The trend for hair accessories and headgear in the fashion industry has brought this art to a global platform.
The paranda is a hit in the European markets and countries where women are seen wearing them in the form of hair extensions.
Final Thoughts:
The Prandi is a game-changer in the world of hairstyling. Its versatility, effortless styling capabilities, hair health protection features, and portability make it the go-to tool for every occasion. Whether you're a professional hairstylist or an everyday user, the Prandi will simplify your hairstyling routine and help you achieve stunning results. Embrace the power of this remarkable hair tool and unlock a world of endless hairstyle possibilities. Get ready to dazzle with the Prandi, your trusted hairstyling companion.