The lehenga — also known as ghagra or chaniya — has been a cornerstone of South Asian fashion for centuries. Its evolution tells the story of cultural exchange, artistic innovation, and enduring elegance.
Mughal Origins
The lehenga as we know it traces its roots to the Mughal era (16th-19th century). Court women wore elaborately embroidered skirts paired with cholis and odhnis. The craftsmanship was extraordinary — zardozi work with real gold and silver thread, intricate mirror work, and hand-dyed fabrics.
Regional variations developed across the subcontinent. The Rajasthani ghagra featured bold colours and mirror work, while the Lucknowi style favoured delicate chikankari embroidery on lighter fabrics.
The Colonial Period
During British rule, the lehenga continued to evolve. New textile techniques were introduced while traditional crafts were preserved. The garment remained central to wedding ceremonies and festivals, carrying cultural identity through periods of change.
Modern Renaissance
The late 20th century saw the lehenga transformed by designers like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Manish Malhotra, and Tarun Tahiliani. They fused traditional techniques with contemporary silhouettes — lighter fabrics, modern colour palettes, and innovative draping styles.
Today, the bridal lehenga is the single most important garment in many South Asian weddings. Brides invest months in choosing the perfect piece, making it all the more meaningful when these garments find new life on platforms like Nivaii.
The Preloved Chapter
Every lehenga on Nivaii carries a story. Some were worn at weddings, others at Navratri celebrations or milestone anniversaries. By giving these pieces a second chapter, we ensure that the craftsmanship — and the memories woven into them — continue to be celebrated.
