Saif Ali Khan’s Bengali-style Dhuti-Panjabi is a perfect example of how celebratory men's wear need not be cumbersome. The actor has been spotted many times in the traditional attire, channeling his maternal roots. These kurtas typically called 'Panjabi' in Bangla, are made of silk or cotton, and mostly have minimal thread work around the yoke, unlike the usual sequin or mirror-work or any other kinds of embellishments we see in sherwani style kurtas.
It is comfortable as it is airy and light on the shoulders, staying loyal to ancient styling with a round neckline and no Mandarin collar, thus giving a good old heritage vibe combined with today's comfort.
In West Bengal, or most Bengalis call the kurta Panjabi because they adapted the attire from North Indian traders during the British era, who were colloquially called 'Punjabi' by the locals back then.
These traders brought the kurta or salwar kameez trend to Bengal. It was seen as a symbol of the Punjabi spirit by the local Bengalis.
The Panjabi look is gaining more and more attention among other celebs, thanks to Saif. Ranveer Singh adopted this style in 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani', thereby helping to modernise the look of the traditional silhouette. Ranveer Allahbadia, Remo D’Souza, and Gurmeet Choudhary have been seen in similar kurtas with airy fabric and gentle embroidery, thus giving weightless, breathable kurtas a new status this festive and shaadi season. Besides,
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Compared to sherwanis, which are generally multi-layered, adamant, and unyielding, this style is all about comfort without losing the grace factor. Matched with smooth pleated dhotis or trousers it is possible for users of the attire to remain trendy and at the same time comfortable during long festivities. The creative minds behind fashion as well as the stylists are taking this as an opportunity to present fresh, urban ways of wearing the kurta by combining it with scarves, jackets, or subtle accessories to raise the style.
Gen Z and millennials see the Dhuti-Panjabi not only as a costume of their roots but also for its usefulness in daily life. Being light, breathable, and visually appealing, it is a way a man can make a royal statement without the heaviness that comes with a sherwani. If this style will be worn at festive gatherings or weddings, then the question is not whether this style will catch on, but where, when, and how you will wear yours next.
