Mithila Turban

The Paag of Pride and Heritage from Bihar

Among the many symbols of India’s diverse cultural identity, the Mithila Turban, known locally as the Paag, holds a place of deep respect and reverence. Originating from the Mithila region of Bihar, the Paag is not just a piece of traditional attire — it is a symbol of honour, dignity, and cultural pride for the Maithil people.

A Symbol of Honour and Respect

The Paag has long been regarded as a mark of social prestige and self-respect in Mithila society. Worn with immense pride during religious ceremonies, weddings, and important social gatherings, it signifies the wearer’s cultural roots and community belonging. To offer a Paag to someone is considered an act of high honour, symbolizing deep respect and recognition.

Historically, the Paag represented a person’s social standing and wisdom. In ancient times, it was also an emblem of authority among scholars and elders in the region.

Design, Colours, and Cultural Significance

Traditionally, the Paag was crafted from plant leaves and natural fibres, showcasing the simplicity and resourcefulness of early Maithil life. Over the centuries, it evolved into a more refined headgear made from cotton or silk fabric, designed in different shades, colours, and shapes depending on the occasion and status of the wearer.

• Red Paag is often worn during weddings or festive events, symbolizing prosperity and joy.
• White Paag represents purity and is used in religious or solemn ceremonies.
• Yellow and Pink Paags are worn on cultural occasions, exuding elegance and regional charm.

Each turban is wrapped in a distinct style, representing not just personal taste but also the wearer’s lineage and regional identity within Mithila.

Cultural Revival and Heritage Conservation

In recent years, efforts have been made to revive and promote the Mithila Paag as a proud emblem of Maithil identity. The movement called “Paag Bachau Abhiyan” (Save the Paag Campaign) has encouraged people to wear and preserve this traditional headgear, ensuring that the cultural heritage of Mithila continues to flourish among the younger generations.

The Paag today remains a cherished part of Mithila’s attire, reflecting not only its artistic beauty but also the spiritual and emotional bond of the community with its ancestral traditions.

Commemorative Stamp

In recognition of India’s rich diversity, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative stamp on the Mithila Turban (Paag) as part of its special series on “Headgears of India.” This philatelic tribute honours the timeless elegance and symbolic value of the Paag, celebrating it as a crown of honour that continues to define the cultural identity of the Mithila region.

A Crown of Cultural Pride

The Mithila Turban stands as a living expression of dignity, tradition, and self-respect. More than a headgear, it is a heritage of honour — a proud emblem that connects generations of Maithil people to their glorious past. Through the Department of Posts’ commemorative stamp, the Paag now takes its rightful place among the celebrated symbols of India’s cultural unity in diversity.