It is an important part of Newari culture and is often worn during festivals and special occasions. It is a beautiful and elegant dress that has been passed down through generations of Newari women.

Elements of Haku Patasi

The haku parsi is a traditional attire consisting of a long black cloth with red borders that wraps around the lower half of the body, featuring pleats in the front. Unlike other types of saris, it doesn’t require a petticoat and typically measures around four meters in length.

The jani (or patuka) is a long white cloth wrapped around the waist like a belt, helping to secure the haku parsi in place.

The bhoto is a full-sleeve blouse with two overlapping flaps at the front, tied at four corners (left and right). In Nepali, it’s known as misha lan (clothes worn by women) and is usually made from plain black or dotted cotton fabric.

To complete the look, a gaa (shawl) is worn, draped diagonally across the chest. Typically, the right hand holds the shawl outside of it.

A sachika is a red thread with three sections, which women use to braid their hair and give the appearance of longer hair, wearing it from the middle of the braid.

For footwear, women wear locally made chakti laakhan—red velvet slippers—or bhamcha laakhan, which are more decorative and typically worn by brides.

For special occasions, women adorn themselves with elaborate jewelry, such as:

• Lunswan: A gold headpiece worn at the center of the forehead.

• Taayo: A golden locket with a rectangular or oval pendant.

• Tikmaa: An intricate piece worn on the side of the head, with a lattice design in a triangular shape.

• Bhimpumaa: A necklace made of large red coral gems.

• Kalli: Chunky silver anklets worn around the ankles, which are an essential part of the outfit since the haku parsi ends just above the knee.