By Cathy Mercer


People from all over the world have been wearing turbans for centuries. Although the main reasons they were worn in the past was for religious reasons and for protection against cold and heat, this has changed over the years. They are now being worn by many women as fashion accessories and there has even been a recent trend towards wearing funny turbans, embellished in amusing ways.

A turban is often worn in a specific way according to the culture of the wearer. This distinguishes them from other groups and cultures. To their own culture or group, a wearer looks completely normal, whereas to an outsider they may appear strange. With increased globalization, Westerners are more exposed to the sight of people all over the world wearing different headgear, sometimes vastly different to anything they have seen before.

An example of this is the warrior monks of an armed Sikh order called Nihangs. They wear elaborate head attire that can take over 45 minutes to tie. This headgear is embellished with quoits of steel. They may look ridiculous to some but they are highly respected by those who know their history and their valor in battle.

In North India, particularly in Rajasthan, a man who does not sport a turban is not considered to be formally dressed. There are thousands of different styles, types and colors worn. The tying of this head attire is considered to be an art, requiring much practice. A turban shows where its wearer comes from, what he does for a living and its size indicates his position in society.

Among the Sikhs, the turban is a sacred item and represents honor, courage, spirituality and self respect. Maintaining long hair and wearing one is considered an important part of the identity of a Sikh. In modern times Sikhs have faced some conflict over wearing their headgear at all times, particularly when this is in conflict with other laws in the countries where they are living.

A turban is a sacred item not only to the Sikhs but to a number of other people around the world. The Rastafarians cover their dreadlocks with huge red, green and black headgear. This helps to keep their dreadlocks dust free but is also symbolic of their religion. Men of the Islamic faith wear them in honor of their prophet Mohammed. Muslim religious elders often wear one wrapped around a cap. There is even a christian denomination in Kenya called the Akurinu who wear white religious head attire.

If you are wanting to purchase a turban, this may be done at various stores, including from many online suppliers. Searching online helps to source these items with the least amount of effort. There are a wide selection available to choose from at reasonable prices.

Although the turban has been around for centuries, it has become a popular fashion trend once again. They can be embellished with just about any accessory, making them extremely versatile. A choice of creatively accessorized funny turbans are available for those who want to try something different.




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