In the days of yore, Goan men wore a cabaia, on top of their kastis. I cannot
successful trace the genesis of this attire to any particular influence. It is
definitely not a Hindu influence nor do I believe Portuguese men wore a cabaia.
The word cabaia is also commonly used in the Far East where the woman's tunic
is called a cabaia. The is some possibility the Portuguese might have borrowed
this word from the Arabs, who wear similar garments, but which today are called
dish-dashes, but at one point might have been called Qaba.
Could it possibly have been a Muslim influence that led Goan men to adopt a
cabaia?
Would appreciate your input on this.
Best,
selma
