If you spotted someone wearing pajamas to a wedding or business meeting in most Western countries, you'd probably do a double-take. But in India, this is completely normal—because "pajamas" mean something entirely different there.

The word "pajamas" comes from the Persian pae-jamah, literally meaning "leg garment." In India, pajamas are loose-fitting trousers traditionally paired with a kurta—a knee-length tunic. This combination, called kurta-pajama, has been a cornerstone of Indian clothing for centuries and remains wildly popular in 2025.

Not Your Bedroom Attire

Here's where Western confusion comes in: when pajamas traveled to Europe and America in the colonial era, they evolved into sleepwear. But in India, they kept their original purpose as respectable daytime clothing.

The kurta-pajama is genuinely versatile. You'll see men wearing it to:

Weddings and festivals
Religious ceremonies
Casual gatherings with friends
Some workplaces, especially in more traditional settings
Just running errands around town

Cotton versions dominate everyday wear because they're breathable in India's often sweltering climate. For special occasions, silk or embroidered variations add elegance without sacrificing the outfit's fundamental comfort.

Modern Twists on Tradition

While traditional kurta-pajamas remain popular, contemporary Indian fashion has spawned creative variations. Urban youth increasingly pair kurtas with jeans for a fusion look. Churidar-style pajamas—tighter-fitting trousers that bunch at the ankles—have become trendy for 2025, especially in pastel shades like mint green and blush pink.

The beauty of this garment is its democracy. Unlike some traditional clothing reserved for specific castes or regions, kurta-pajamas are worn across India by people of all backgrounds. A farmer might wear a simple cotton set while working, while a groom sports an intricately embroidered silk version at his wedding—same basic outfit, different contexts.

Why It Works

The kurta-pajama's enduring popularity isn't just about tradition. The loose fit allows air circulation in hot weather, making it far more practical than Western pants and dress shirts. The design accommodates various body types without tailoring. And culturally, it signals respect for Indian heritage while remaining completely functional.

So the next time you hear that Indians wear pajamas during the day, remember: they're not showing up to the office in their sleepwear. They're wearing a centuries-old garment that Westerners borrowed, renamed, and repurposed—while Indians kept the original. If anything, we're the ones who turned leg garments into bedroom attire.

Related Tags