KHANGA Meaning and
Definition
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Khanga is a traditional East African garment that finds its origins in the coastal regions of Kenya and Tanzania. It is a colorful and vibrant rectangular piece of fabric typically made of cotton adorned with a variety of bold patterns, vibrant colors, and imprinted Swahili proverbs.
The khanga fabric is typically one meter wide and two meters long, often adorned with a decorative border on all four sides. It is commonly worn by women as a wrap-around skirt, head covering, shawl, or baby carrier.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the khanga holds great cultural significance. It serves as a means of communication, enabling wearers to express their emotions, moods, or political opinions. The Swahili proverbs printed on the fabric often convey messages of wisdom, encouragement, or social commentary. Khangas are also widely used as gifts for special occasions such as weddings, childbirth, or religious ceremonies.
The name "khanga" is said to originate from the Swahili word "kanga," which means "guinea fowl" due to the resemblance between the fabric's patterns and the bird's feathers. Over time, the garment has become an iconic symbol of East African culture, identity, and femininity.
The versatility, cultural significance, and intricate designs of the khanga continue to make it a cherished and sought-after garment, not only within East Africa but also around the world, serving as a bridge between tradition and modern fashion.
Common Misspellings for KHANGA
- jhanga
- mhanga
- lhanga
- ohanga
- kganga
- kbanga
- kjanga
- kuanga
- kyanga
- khznga
- khsnga
- khwnga
- khqnga
- khabga
- khamga
- khajga
- khahga
- khanfa
- khanva
- khanba
Etymology of KHANGA
The word "khanga" comes from the Swahili language, which is predominantly spoken in East Africa. The term "khanga" is derived from the Arabic word "kanga" or "kanqa", which means a vibrant, patterned fabric. The Portuguese term "canga" (meaning neck or shoulder cloth) might have also influenced its formation. Over time, the word "khanga" specifically came to refer to the brightly colored, rectangular pieces of cloth often worn by women in East Africa as garments or headscarves.
