Men’s Lungi
Maroon with gold border
In Kerala, the lungi is generally colourful and available in various designs; and is worn by both men and women. It is also called 'kaili (കൈലി)'. Labourers typically wear it while working.
The fabric of this lungi, due to its style of weaving, shimmers from black to maroon, as it shifts and moves. It is woven with black thread in the warp (lengthwise direction) and maroon thread in the weft (crosswise direction) making it a shot fabric (or changeable fabric) and bears golden borders (kasavu).
A lungi is a traditional textile worn around the waist as a garment. Lungis can be formed as a stitched cylinder or left as open rectangular cloth tied securely with a double twist or knot at the waist. The standard adult lungi is 115 centimeters (45 in) in height and 200 cm (79 in) in length, when opened flat.
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Resembling a sarong, also a textile wrapped around the waist, lungis are worn by Indian men as normal, everyday wear, or for lounging, or sleepwear. They are favored across the subcontinent for their breathability and comfort in hot, humid climates.
Design: It is a large loop of cloth that wraps around the waist and falls to the ankles. It can be knotted in the front or folded and tucked securely at the waist.
Fabric & Patterns: They are made of lightweight, breathable cotton. Common designs include vibrant plaids, checks, or stripes, though plain white versions are also very popular, particularly in South India.
Versatility: The length can easily be adjusted by folding the top edge over, allowing the wearer to hike it up to their knees while working or walking.
Title: Men’s Lungi
Date: 2016
Geography: Kerala, India
Medium: Cotton, metallic fibers
Dimensions: H. 71 in. W. 47 in.
Provenance: Purchased in Kochi, India
Inventory Number: IN.33
