Patuka

The Patuka or Patuki - Paṭukā (पटुका)^[1][2] is a traditional Nepalese waistband or sash, typically a long piece of cloth tied around the waist by mountain and heavy workers to support the back and prevent pain.^[3] Generally a Nepalese starts to wear one during early childhood.^[4] Not only does a Patuka provide support for the waist and back, it also serves as a makeshift pocket for water vessels, snacks, tools, and money.^[4][2] The Patuka is a part of the attire of many ethnic groups in Nepal. For example, it is worn by men in the Terai region and also worn during festivals and ceremonies, representing cultural identity; typically for religious occasions, it is accompanied by a kurta or sari.^[5] The Patuka is also a part of traditional attire of the Gurung people where it was used to secure the Kachhad or Kaas, a white wrap-around skirt reaching the thighs or knees made of plain white cotton, now obsolete, now replaced with army-style belts for convenience.^[6]