Indian Culture

There is no denying that the sari is internally bonded with the Indian culture. Women share a special relationship with this classic attire. A sari makes them look beautiful, charming, glamorous and attractive. Although the sari has these exemplary features, the success of the sari is attributed to its simplicity, and sense of tradition it displays. As a matter of fact, they are a part and parcel of every female wardrobe in India. Sari is worn over two stitched piece of cloth called as blouse and pallu.

One would be surprised to know that the sari can be worn in more than hundred different styles. When worn with jewelry, it enhances the look. There are no set rules, and one can have fun experimenting while trying one. Different regions within the country have their own distinct way of wearing the sari. Wearing them properly is an art. Let’s have a look at some of the different ways of wearing a sari.

Maharashtrian Style

The Maharashtrian style of wearing a sari involves placing the center of the sari around the back of the waist. They are usually 9 yards long with the loose ends fixed on the front. The two ends are then enveloped over the legs. The left over length is passed over the shoulder, covering most part of the upper body.

Gujarati Style

In the Gujarati style, the pallu is draped creatively in front of the right shoulder. The loose end is then draped back to the front. The chest is covered, and the edge is tucked in the petticoat at the back side.

Bengali Style

Indian Sari

Unlike other styles, the Bengali style does not have any pleats. The sari is pushed in with care, and then carried over the left shoulder to the right hip. The sari is not folded, but a circular pattern is created with the pallu placed over the shoulder. Some well known films like Devdas, etc has the gorgeous former Miss World and Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai displaying the sari worn in perfect Bengali style with the keys attached to the pallu. The keys are usually heavy to ensure that the pallu doesn’t fall off its place.

Tribal Style

In this style, the sari is draped firmly covering the chest by tying the sari around the chest area.

Tamilian Style

The saris worn under the Tamilian style are usually 8 meters in length. The sari is covered around the waist with the left portion positioned over the left shoulder, and the pleats positioned over the left leg. The rest is then wrapped around the waist, and tucked over the left hand side.

Nivi Style

This style is commonly followed in Andhra Pradesh. Under this style the pleats are passed through the legs, and tucked around the waist at the backside. This ensures free movement despite the covered legs.

These are some of the most popular styles of draping a sari. Considered as one amongst the most gracious attire, sari does have a lot of variety to offer.