Hyderabad. Khada Dupatta, included in the cultural heritage of the city, is a special and famous bridal outfit. This attire is a part of the age-old traditions of Hyderabadi Muslim families and is not just a garment but a symbol of royal chic, cultural heritage and beauty. Due to its unique design and intricate embroidery, this royal dress is no longer limited to just one community, rather people from different communities are also wearing it on their weddings and special occasions. The Khada Dupatta originated in the 17th century, when the Mughal Empress Nur Jahan incorporated Persian and Turkish influences into court fashion and commissioned skilled Turkish and Persian artisans to create the finest royal attire.
These clothes soon became a must-have outfit for women from rich families. With time, this royal attire changed and took its own special form, which is today called Khada Dupatta. With the rise of the Asafjahi dynasty, this style reached South India, where the Hyderabadi Begums adopted and further refined it. Changes made by the Begums of the Nizam in Hyderabad led to this particular attire consisting of a long kurta, jacket and a 6 yard decorated dupatta. Despite its humble beginnings, the Khada Dupatta also became popular among common women of different backgrounds in Hyderabad state in the pre-independence era and transcended social barriers.
The word ‘Khara’ means standing straight and ‘Dupatta’ means veil.
The name refers to the special way of draping a 6 yard long dupatta straight behind the bride, creating a curtain-like effect and reflecting royal dignity. According to custom it is worn directly with kurta, churidar and sometimes with koti. This three-piece outfit has become synonymous with royal weddings in Hyderabad. An authentic Khada Dupatta is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, made from fine fabrics like silk, net or chiffon and embroidered with zari, gota or kundan. The dupatta has intricate designs like flowers, leaves, lattice patterns and metal borders, which reflect the grandeur of the Nizam era. This dress is not only beautiful to look at, but is also a symbol of purity, family pride and cultural continuity.
Modern brides and celebrity effects
Despite changing fashion, Khada Dupatta remains the first choice of Hyderabadi brides. Over the decades its design has evolved from heavy Banarasi silk to the lightweight net and modern embellishments of today. Celebrities like Sania Mirza, Rekha, Mahira Khan, Nita Ambani and Shobhita Dhulipala have revived interest in this traditional attire, while social media and wedding fashion influencers are popularizing it across the country.
Local designers of Hyderabad are now giving it a new look in a modern style while maintaining its traditional look. Markets like Laad Bazaar and Charminar are still home to the artisans who make these beautiful costumes. Many families preserve these heirloom clothes worn by women at weddings and special occasions for generations.
