A Different Color of Mourning

In several nations, the color associated with mourning is black, but in India, it holds a contrasting meaning. White, symbolizing purity, is considered the color of mourning in Indian culture. Even long after the loss of a spouse, the surviving partner continues to wear white attire. A widow dons a white saree, while a widower wears a white turban, particularly in the Indian State of Rajasthan.

While black is not universally recognized as the color of mourning, it remains deeply ingrained in the customs of many societies, which might be unfamiliar to visitors. Therefore, witnessing the prevalence of white as the mourning color is a unique aspect specific to India.

Advertisement