
Recently, the biggest block buster in Bollywood, Jodha-Akbar’, which was directed and produced by Ashutosh Gowariker saw a resurgence in the timeless classic tale. Another symbol of her Rajput roots was her way of adorning herself, which was with a red bindi, which also further showcased her sense of tradition. For the most part Jodha always covered her head with the pallu of her dupatta, while on the other hand she only went bare headed when she was in her palace room, or basically indoors. She may have married the greatest Mughal ruler, but her roots were deeply embedded in the Rajput culture and style which always showed in her colorful dupattas or her elaborate lehengas. Large neck pieces and earrings, and a large nose ring, also called a ‘bali’ was used to adorn her flawless beauty. Based on historical facts and figures, Jodha wore ornate jewelry and lehengas along with dupattas that had rich colors and heavy borders. The grandness of these costumes was given the essence of reality by the artisans who intricately wove exquisite styles of embroidery, motifs and embellishments on the finest forms of Silk and Cotton, during the golden era of the Mughal dynasty.Īishwarya Rai as Jodha (Source: ) Styleįabrics like silk, cotton and brocade were stitched along with intricate embroideries of Kundan, crystal stones and Zardozi. The fabrics used for the costumes were originally manufactured and woven in Rajasthan. These royal costumes were inspired by the Mughal style of clothing which also had innovative slices of the Rajput style of designs and embroideries in it. The costumes worn by Jodha before entering the limelight, traces its roots and emergence way back to the Mughal Period which was truly patronized by the historic legend ‘Jodhabai’. Her timeless beauty, her regal approach in dressing and style has carved a legend of its own. Movies, stories, documentaries and interesting articles have over time proved the story of love between the Rajput princess and the great Mughal king, so much so that it is hard to not acknowledge the fact that Jodhaa bought much more than just her title to the pages of history. What started off as a matrimonial alliance to strengthen the relationship between Hindus and Muslims became a story of love and power that has been showcased in different ways over several years. A historical account which is no less than a fairytale is the story of Jodha, who was the queen of the great Mughal emperor Akbar.
