Bollywood actress and noted style icon Kangana Ranaut recently made a powerful sartorial statement by choosing a traditional Ladakhi outfit for a winter wedding. The actor, known for her fearless fashion choices, shared her stunning look on Instagram, highlighting it as a celebration of India's diverse cultural heritage during the wedding season.
Kangana's Ladakhi Ensemble: A Detailed Look
For the festive occasion, Kangana Ranaut wore a vibrant green brocade Mogos, a gown-like garment. She paired it with a mustard-colored Bok shawl, traditionally crafted from goat skin or silk to provide warmth in the cold Himalayan climate. Her accessories perfectly complemented the traditional attire: pointed nude heels, a classic Himachali haar (necklace), delicate gold chandelier jhumkas (earrings), and her signature tiny bindi.
The entire look was created by Namza Couture, a label Kangana has frequently collaborated with. The brand is celebrated for its mission to reinterpret Ladakhi traditions with a contemporary aesthetic, using luxurious fabrics and intricate craftsmanship. The name 'Namza' itself translates to 'clothing' in the Ladakhi language.
The Cultural Roots: Goncha and Sulma Explained
Kangana's outfit draws inspiration from two foundational pieces of Ladakhi dress: the Goncha (or Kos) and the Sulma.
The Goncha is a voluminous robe traditionally worn by men. It is typically made from wool, velvet, cotton, or blends. While everyday versions come in muted shades like black, grey, or burgundy, wedding gonchas are more opulent, fashioned from brocade, silk, or velvet often sourced from Nepal and Bhutan. The robe is cinched at the waist with a thick fabric belt known as a skeyraks.
The Sulma is the female counterpart, characterized by its flowing, ball-gown silhouette. It is usually made from bright-colored wool, brocade, velvet, or silk and worn with a tilin—a wide-sleeved blouse. A married woman ties the Sulma at the waist with a vibrant sash or skeyraks. By opting for a Mogos-style Goncha, Kangana brought a unique, gender-fluid twist to the traditional wedding dress code.
More Than a Outfit: A Fashion Philosophy
Kangana Ranaut's choice was a deliberate style statement that went beyond mere aesthetics. By selecting a traditional Ladakhi ensemble for a mainstream winter wedding, she showcased how regional heritage can be seamlessly integrated into modern fashion. Her look served as a masterclass in balancing cultural authenticity with contemporary glamour.
Her consistent promotion of brands like Namza Couture, whether at press events or on social media, underscores her role as an influential style icon who uses her platform to highlight India's rich textile and craft traditions. This particular appearance reinforces the idea that winter weddings are a perfect opportunity to explore and embrace the depth of India's sartorial legacy, moving beyond conventional lehenga and sari choices.
