Headgears of India

Celebrating India’s Pride and Identity through Headgears

India’s headgears — turbans, caps, and hats — are not mere ornaments of attire; they are symbols of honour, identity, and pride. From the deserts of Rajasthan to the highlands of Ladakh, from tribal traditions to royal courts, each headgear tells a story of courage, culture, and craftsmanship.

To celebrate this diversity, the Department of Posts has issued a special set of 16 Commemorative Postage Stamps on the Headgears of India, honouring their invaluable cultural significance and the heritage they represent.

Haryanvi Turban (Khundka)

In the heart of Haryana, the Khundka turban is an emblem of rustic pride and tradition. Usually more than ten feet long, this cloth is skillfully wrapped around the head and is seen prominently in Haryanvi folk dances and festive ceremonies. It stands for courage, simplicity, and community honour — values deeply rooted in Haryana’s cultural identity.

Hornbill Warrior Cap, Nagaland

Among the Naga tribes, the Hornbill Warrior Cap symbolizes valour and achievement. The number of hornbill feathers adorning a headgear reflects the warrior’s success in battle or hunting — each feather a badge of honour. This majestic headgear represents the Naga spirit of bravery and pride in tradition.

Gujarati Turban (Phento)

In Gujarat, the Phento is a vibrant and loosely folded turban, traditionally paired with the rural attire of Chorno and white cotton kurta. Woven in bright hues, the Phento reflects the lively and colourful essence of Gujarati culture, often worn during festivals and community gatherings to signify joy and celebration.

Bison Horn Maria Cap, Chhattisgarh

The Bison Horn Maria Tribe of Chhattisgarh takes its name from its distinctive headdress shaped like bison horns. Originally crafted from real horns and now made with bamboo, feathers, and cowries, this cap is worn during tribal dances and ceremonies. It is a sacred heirloom, passed down through generations, embodying continuity and ancestral pride.

Rajasthani Turban (Pagdi/Safa)

Few symbols of Indian culture are as iconic as the Rajasthani Pagdi. Each region of Rajasthan boasts its own unique style, colour, and shape of turban. The size and layering of the Pagdi often reflect the wearer’s status and honour. Worn during festivals and royal events, it represents Rajasthan’s timeless grandeur and valorous spirit.

Himachali Cap (Kullu Topi)

The Himachali Cap, especially the flat-topped Kullu topi, is a warm and graceful emblem of Himachal’s hill culture. Adorned with a colourful woven band, it exudes charm and humility. Often worn during festivals and local dances, it stands as a mark of identity, affection, and hospitality.

Angami Tribe Cap, Nagaland

Worn by the Angami Naga warriors, this imposing headgear of bamboo, cords, and hornbill feathers marks bravery and manhood. In earlier times, only proven warriors had the right to wear it, making it a prized possession that continues to represent strength and tradition.

Japi Cap, Assam

The Japi, Assam’s iconic conical hat, combines practicality with artistry. Made of bamboo and tokou palm leaves, it serves both as a protective sunshade and a ceremonial symbol. Once worn by farmers, it now graces royal functions, cultural ceremonies, and homes as a sign of respect and welcome.

Puneri Pagdi, Maharashtra

The Puneri Pagdi is synonymous with the pride and identity of Pune. Originating in the late 19th century during the Swadeshi movement, it became a symbol of honour and resistance. Today, it continues to be worn at major social functions and holds Geographical Indication (GI) status, cementing its cultural legacy.

Naga Hat

Worn by Chota Naga warriors, this hat is a masterpiece of tribal craftsmanship. Made from plaited cane and adorned with hornbill feathers, boar tusks, and tiger claws, it was once a privilege earned by successful head-hunters. Today, it represents heritage, valor, and tribal artistry.

Mysore Peta, Karnataka

The elegant Mysore Peta — named after the Wodeyar kings — is a royal turban symbolizing dignity and honour. Traditionally presented as a mark of respect, it continues to be worn during ceremonial occasions, especially in Mysore and Kodagu, preserving centuries-old regal traditions.

Sikh Turban (Dastar)

For the Sikh community, the Dastar is not just a headgear — it is a sacred article of faith. Representing equality, spirituality, and self-respect, it crowns every Sikh as a sovereign soul. It also signifies the commitment to uphold justice, righteousness, and compassion — the eternal tenets of Sikhism.

Kashmiri Karakul Cap

The Karakul Cap of Kashmir, worn in both collapsible and stiff forms, exudes refinement and grace. Traditionally used by priests and elders, it symbolizes honour and cultural pride. The cap remains a part of Kashmir’s traditional attire, especially during festive and religious occasions.

Mithila Paag, Bihar

The Paag is the pride of Mithila — a traditional headgear worn by Maithil men as a mark of respect and dignity. Its origins trace back to prehistoric times when it was woven from plant leaves. Today, the Paag stands as a living symbol of Mithila’s identity, love, and resilience.

Tepi of Brokpa Tribe, Ladakh

The Tepi, the colourful floral headgear of the Brokpa Tribe, is a striking symbol of Ladakh’s ethnic heritage. Decorated with silver, coins, and flowers, it is believed to ward off the evil eye. The Tepi reflects the Brokpa’s reverence for nature, beauty, and ancient tradition.

Goncha Cap, Ladakh

The Goncha Cap, part of Ladakhi women’s attire, is a stylish and protective headgear with a rounded brim. Embroidered with silk and brocade, it keeps out the harsh weather of the Himalayas while representing elegance and endurance — two defining qualities of Ladakhi life.

A Tribute to India’s Cultural Crown

Each of these 16 headgears is not merely fabric or ornament — it is India’s living crown, reflecting diversity, unity, and cultural continuity. Through this commemorative stamp issue, the Department of Posts celebrates India’s timeless tradition of head adornments — a colourful thread that binds the nation’s past with its vibrant present.