01/04/2019
It’s not just a cap but a crown
The bright colored, woolen Himachali cap is a proud headgear of the Himachal folks and has moved beyond just being a cultural identity. The topi though largely is worn in the regions of Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur and other higher areas of Himachal. The cap usually is accessorized with either a brooch, peacock feathers, marigold flowers or pretty tassles of dried flowers of the Himalayan Brahma Kamal (Lotus of Lord Brahma). Traditionally, it used to be embellished with the brilliantly coloured Monal (Impeyan pheasant) feathers until the bird was declared an endangered species.
There can’t be better memento or gift that represents a state better than the Himachali Topi. Yes, there are other handicrafts, the beautiful Kullu shawls but nothing compares the charm of this traditional cap.