There was a news few days back that bedroom of famous celebrity Kate Hudson was designed beautifully with a big Moroccan wedding blanket, Handira. There is something in a Handira which attracts people of all ages from across the world. The popularity of Handira has made many people curious to know everything about it. In this article, a small effort is made to increase your knowledge about Handira.

The Beginning

They are also famous as Moroccan wedding blanket because in earlier times, a bride belonging to Berber tribe was give it as a gift at the time of her marriage. The bride’s relatives used to prepare with their hands months before her wedding. To make a Handira, sheep’s wool, linen and cotton was used by women of Berber tribe in North Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. The very first inhabitants of Africa’s North coast were Berbers and they were in continuous conflict with Arab forces from the beginning of 7th century. Despite all of this, Berbers were able to maintain a separate language and culture. Although the population of Berbers was maximum (around 60 percent) in Morocco, they were persecuted by Arabic government, and were forced to follow the Arabian culture rather than given the freedom to choose their own culture.

Preparation of Handira

To prepare a Handira is not one day’s task. With numerous mirrored sequins featured in it, several days or even weeks are spent to prepare a single piece of Handira. This long duration is because it is a gift given to bride from her family members and relatives, so they take time to represent their art. It is believed that while doing this teamwork, the relatives of bride teach her everything about the bees and the birds, amongst other marital expectations and duties. After the wedding ceremony, bride is allowed to wear this blanket like a cape which is tied round her neck.

Global Recognition

The prime reason behind Handira’s popularity all over the globe is the usage of neutral colors and sparkles in them. Because of these neutral colors, they easily blend with the décor of any room. Since, these blankets are available in various designs, sizes and patterns, people love to have many and make their own unique collection. This collection of several Handiras is usually admired by their family members and friends. Another reason behind their global popularity is the reflection of a woman’s skills and this global recognition gives them satisfaction. This recognition is a proud movement for everyone associated with the Handira.

As the time has changed, so is the fashion and taste of people. Few decades back, people were not much attracted towards this artwork but today, these blankets are most in demand. Anyone who is looking to beautify their home goes for at least one item made up of these blankets. Today, people have choices and they can buy either a blanket or a pillow cover or just a simple hanging piece for decorating their room.