If we talk about a historical and current symbol of Indian ancestry that represents the alluring culture and traditional footwear, then Jutti is the name! Jutti is a word picked from the Urdu language, that means a shoe having a closed upper and a sole. It is comfortable and exotic footwear and we want to give much-deserved attention to it by talking about how these beautiful juttis were developed and evolved till this modern era of footwear and styling. Here is its history.
Looking back at the history of Indian footwear, we can see the prominent position of the Jutti with a glorious presence back to 200 BC. Throwing some light on its origin, we can trace its usability and invention back to the Mughal Empire. Jutti has witnessed an evolving journey from a traditional footwear luxury to a custom-made ethical must-have for the layman. Mostly you can find them covering half of the feet with a spherical or M-shaped cover. But during the Buddhist era, strapped sandals were very popular among people. Later on, this traditional footwear took a ravishing turn in North India, particularly Rajasthan and Punjab. These traditionally built shoes gained so much popularity among both genders. Even though nobody is aware of the exact date and period but some historians claim that it was more than three hundred years ago when this lovely and unique footwear was introduced to the royal nobles and kingsmen of Rajasthan, which they named Nagra. The neighboring regions like Punjab got into the magic of these juttis as their name and rich culture spread fast there too!
Because these two states are so near together, this style was quickly adopted, and artisans gave this Nagra shoe a rich twist to its style and name, adoring it as Jutti. While moving to Punjab, the name of Nagra footwear changes into Punjabi juttis, with other illuminating styles like Mojaris and khussa. The Sikal and Shikawat areas of Rajasthan have amazingly talented Raijer Mochis (cobblers) that are making these Punjabi juttis for three centuries.
Characteristic Features:
- Completely handcrafted and versatile.
- There is no left or right distinction
- Juttis take shape of the foot with continual usage.
- It is gender-neutral footwear available for both women and men.
- They are light-weight
How to look fabulous in traditional juttis?
1. Traditional Indian attire:
Take it your elegant saree, heavy lehenga, decent suit set or graceful anarkali, Juttis can be your perfect styling companion for any traditional clothing. You really don’t need to go through the pain of wearing those high heels, when you can make a statement with these bespoke juttis. So simply add glitz to your look by matching juttis with the embroidery or color of your garment.
2. Western Attire
To give your western outfit a traditional spin, pair a tan-colored jutti with any maxi dress or trousers and kurta.
3. Contemporary Style:
Don’t want to stick to the basics? Then try these unique, quirky, and trendy jutties that have flooded everyone’s hearts with impeccable designs and styles.
Modern women have already bid goodbye to any stereotypes of wearing juttis just with traditions, as experimentation has taken the lead. The great legacy of juttis is now available in prints, embroidery, ornamented with beads, and exquisitely embellished. So ensure a special aura of ethnic touch to your personality with less effort by hopping on these heart-throbbing juttis.
