The saree is a versatile garment that can be draped in numerous ways, each reflecting the cultural diversity and regional traditions of India. The draping style of a saree not only enhances its beauty but also showcases the wearer's personality and sense of fashion. In this chapter, we will explore some of the popular draping styles of Indian sarees, highlighting their distinct features and significance.
Nivi Style
The Nivi style is one of the most common and widely recognized draping styles of sarees. Originating from Andhra Pradesh, this style involves pleating the saree and tucking it at the waist, with the loose end draped over the shoulder. The pallu (decorative end) is usually brought over the left shoulder and can be worn over the head for a traditional touch. The Nivi style offers elegance and simplicity, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal events.
Bengali Style
The Bengali style of draping sarees is known for its distinctive pleating and bold, dramatic pallu. The saree is typically wrapped around the waist, and the pallu is draped over the left shoulder and brought around the body from the back to the front. The loose end of the pallu is often pleated and pinned on the left shoulder, creating a fan-like effect. The Bengali style is characterized by richly woven sarees, such as the famous Jamdani and Baluchari, and is commonly worn during cultural festivities and weddings in West Bengal.
Gujarati Style
The Gujarati style of draping sarees is vibrant and colorful, reflecting the joyful spirit of Gujarat. In this style, the saree is draped from the back, and the pallu is brought over the right shoulder and wrapped around the body to the front. The pallu is then pleated and pinned at the right shoulder, creating a decorative effect. The Gujarati style is often accompanied by vibrant bandhani (tie-dye) or embroidered sarees and is commonly worn during Navratri and other festive occasions in Gujarat.
Maharashtrian Nauvari Style
The Maharashtrian Nauvari style is unique to the state of Maharashtra and is worn primarily by women. It involves draping the saree in a dhoti-style, where the saree is wrapped around the waist and the pleats are tucked at the back. The pallu is taken over the shoulder and draped across the front, with the loose end often tucked in the waist. The Nauvari style is known for its comfort and ease of movement and is commonly worn during Maharashtrian weddings, festivals, and cultural events.
Draping Styles of South India
In South India, different states have their own distinct draping styles, adding to the diversity of saree traditions in the region:
Madisar: The Madisar style is worn by married women in Tamil Nadu. It involves draping the saree with two distinct sections, creating a unique silhouette. The saree is draped from the right side and wrapped around the waist, with the pallu taken over the left shoulder and brought back to the front.
Kodagu Style: The Kodagu style is traditional to the Kodagu region in Karnataka. It involves pleating the saree at the back and bringing the pallu from the back to the front over the right shoulder. The pallu is then draped over the left shoulder and tucked in the front, showcasing the beauty of the saree's borders.
Kasavu Mundu Style: The Kasavu Mundu style is popular in Kerala and involves draping a traditional off-white saree with a golden border. The saree is wrapped around the waist, and the pallu is taken over the left shoulder and brought to the front.
Exploring the diverse draping styles of Indian sarees provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and sartorial traditions of different regions. Each draping style has its own significance and adds a unique charm to the saree, allowing women to express their individuality and embrace their cultural identity.
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