Urvashi Rautela Dazzles In 24K Gold Embroidered Manipuri Wedding Dress Called Kumin Potloi

Every culture boasts unique wedding attire, each with its own special story to tell. Recently, actress Urvashi Rautela captivated audiences by donning a 24K gold embroidered wedding dress called Kumin Potloi typically worn by Meitei Hindus in Manipur at the Global Fashion Festival 2024, earning praise from netizens for her graceful appearance.

Urvashi Rautela walked the ramp in a rich red monochrome Kumin Potloi, with heavy gold stone accents. In the words of the designer Robert Naorem, a renowned fashion designer from Manipur, “The outfit embodies an otherworldly yet familiar Manipur modern aesthetic, both relevant and timeless”.

The official Instagram page of Naorem describing the outfit writes, “Reimagining heritage and innovating with intricate Kumin Potloi through a contemporary lens."

Decoding the Manipuri Kumin Potloi

What sets the Kumin Potloi apart from other bridal attire is its cylindrical, barrel-shaped skirt. The whole ensemble takes over 10 to 12 days. Kumin Potloi is made from thick fabrics and bamboo, layered with satin and adorned with intricate handwork, including sequins, mirrors, and thread embroidery.

The ensemble is complete with a sheer veil called the Jaliphee, draped around the body, and a half-sleeve blouse known as Lei-som Phurit worn underneath the veil. The skirt is fastened with a belt called the Khonggoi. Manipuri brides also wear gold-toned jewellery to complement the sophisticated outfit and a distinctive headgear known as Kokgee Leiteng.

An interesting aspect of the dress is that it is traditionally stitched onto the bride just an hour or two before the wedding ceremony.