Maharashtra is a grand state not just in terms of its size. But it is grand in terms of its culture, heritage, cuisine, folk music, dance and festivals. When we hear the word ‘Maharashtrian people’, the first image that we see in our mind is them wearing Nauvari saree and Dhoti-Kurta. Right? Yes, it is their identity to an extent. If you are interested in knowing more about their cultural clothing, then check out this content.
The Dress of Maharashtrian people shows their roots in agriculture and the royal Mughal legacy. The most iconic clothing items of Maharashtra women are a Nauvari Saree and Dhoti Kurta for men. Their clothing items are specifically celebrated for their comfort and symbolic presence.
Traditional Dress of Maharashtra for Women
The Nauvari Saree: The crowning glory!
A master class design of their looks. It is a crowning glory of the traditional wardrobe of Maharashtra women. A Nauvari saree is a nine-yard saree known as Lugade and Nauvari Saadi. It is not like the five-yard saree found in various other states. It stretches to nine yards, and there is no underskirt. Kashta style is used to wear it. To attain the style, the centre of the Saree is tucked at the back, and the borders are brought forward and wrapped around the legs, creating a trouser-like structure.
The draping style was traditionally catered for flexibility and comfort. The provided flexibility is important for Maratha warrior women and farmers to work freely, ride horses and perform various work in fields without sacrificing mobility. Apart from that, the woman also used to wear a short-sleeved blouse, which is known as a choli.
For regular wear, the traditional nauvari saree is manufactured using cotton. However, for festivals and weddings, silk versions of the saree are prepared.
- Pethani Saree
The Pethani Saaree is known as the Queen of silks and originates from the town of Paithan. These hand-woven sarees are specifically created for Special occasions. They are prepared with rich, vibrant colours, patterned borders and intricate gold Zari work.
Traditional Dress of Maharashtra for Men:
- Dhotar
The clothing piece is all about comfort and functionality. Their core garment that shows their identity is Dhotar. A Dhotar is a kind of Dhoti. It is simply a regular rectangular piece of unstitched cotton cloth. It is wrapped around the waist. They tucked in neatly at the back. It falls to the ankles.
- Kurta
Kurta is a simple collared shirt. However, for special occasions, festivals or on important dates, men layer it with a Bandi. A Bandi is a sleeveless waistcoat.
- Headgear: Pheta
Their traditional turban is Pheta. It is a long piece of cotton or silk cloth which is wrapped around the head. The styles and colours of Pheta vary from area to area. Also, the colours depend on the occasions; for example, saffron-coloured Phetas are worn on celebrations, while cream is worn on sombre or everyday occasions.
Ornaments or jewel pieces!
- Necklaces are called Thushi, which is a choker made of gold beads.
- Kolhapuri Saaj is a traditional gold necklace with different leaf-shaped pendants.
- Tanmani is a pearl necklace with a striking central pendant.
Also, the Marathi Nath is an important jewellery item that is shaped like a cashew nut and studded with pearls or Ruby stones.
Bottom line!
However, culture is adapted by the younger Maharashtrian people, but they still feel proud in wearing their traditional costumes on special occasions or festivals.