Modi’s Turban: A Kaleidoscope of Tradition and Style Over the Years
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Bhubaneswar: The 75th Republic Day celebrations brought not only a sense of patriotism but also a spotlight on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s distinctive choice of attire, particularly his saffron-colored ‘Bandhani’ turban. Every Republic Day and Independence Day, Prime Minister Modi adorns various styles of turbans, each telling a unique story. This year’s special turban, adorned with the traditional bandhani print, captured the attention of onlookers with its vibrant red, yellow, and pink hues, complemented by a blue print on the back—a signature bandhani style popular in Rajasthan.
As Prime Minister Modi paid homage to the martyrs at the Ober Memorial in Delhi, the saffron-colored ‘Bandhani’ turban stood out, adding a touch of elegance to the occasion. Let’s take a journey through the years, exploring Modi’s diverse turban styles that have become a symbol of his cultural affinity and fashion sense.
Modi’s Turban Chronicles:
2015: In 2015, the Prime Minister sported a turban with red and dark green colors, featuring stripes and multiple hues. Paired with a black suit, this look was showcased during the 66th Republic Day celebrations, where former US President Barack Obama also participated.
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2016: Modi chose a bright yellow and red turban in 2016, paired with a dark cream-colored flower-sleeve bandhgala suit, displaying a vibrant and festive ensemble.
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2017: Opting for a pink turban with a silver cross line in 2017, Modi paired it with a white kurta and a black jacket featuring a white dot pattern, creating a distinctive and stylish appearance.
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2018: The Prime Minister donned a multi-colored turban in 2018, combining it with a cream kurta and a black jacket, showcasing a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
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2019: Wearing a red and yellow multi-colored turban, Modi delivered his sixth Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, presenting a captivating visual representation of cultural diversity.
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2020: In 2020, Modi chose a saffron-colored ‘Bandhej’ turban, paired with a traditional kurta pajama and jacket, as he paid tribute to martyred soldiers at the Summer Memorial.
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2021: Modi was seen wearing a special red ‘halari turban’ with a yellow dot, gifted to him by the royal family of Jamnagar, adding a touch of regality to his appearance.
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2022: Breaking tradition, Modi opted for a hat instead of a turban, specifically the Brahma Kamal cap associated with Uttar Pradesh, showcasing a unique departure from his usual turban choices.
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2023: Celebrating the 74th Republic Day, Modi donned a colorful Rajasthani turban, pairing it with a white kurta, a black dress, and a white stole, continuing to embrace the diversity of India’s cultural heritage.
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Prime Minister Modi’s choice of turbans over the years reflects a visual narrative of the rich cultural tapestry of India. Each turban tells a story, symbolizing traditions, heritage, and a sense of pride. As the leader of the nation, Modi’s attire has become an integral part of the country’s grand celebrations, adding a vibrant and cultural touch to every significant occasion.