By Hemant SharmaEconomy, big cities, beaches, amazing vibes and a bunch of other things are what Maharashtra is famous for, right? Well, other than that, it is actually the rich history and culture that this state is known for in the entirety of India, no two ways about that. And to be honest, it is the culture part that Maharstaran people take way too seriously, and it is pretty much in their lifestyle too. Like, when you visit this state, you’ll clearly be able to notice that you’re in Maharashtra because of the way people dress here. And that is pretty much the unique identity of the people in this state, along with their amazing nature and the way they treat other people, especially tourists. So, let’s get down and talk about the Traditional Dress of Maharashtra (for male and female) a little more, shall we?
Traditional Dress for Men In Maharashtra
1. Dhoti
This long piece of cloth is wrapped around a man’s waist and legs and is like extremely comfortable loose pants, to put it simply. Well, if you’re an Indian citizen, you already know what we’re talking about. The most common colors would be white, cream, or saffron. It is an attire for daily and special occasions alike. This attire is quite famous in Nagpur, a city in Maharashtra.
2. Kurta
The kurta is tossed over the dhoti. It is a long, comfortable shirt. Mostly cotton, soft enough to wear cool. But on other occasions, men adorn themselves in silk styles for festivals and weddings.
3. Pheta (Turban)
The Pheta is an excellent turban that men wear upon their heads. It is more like a long cloth tied around the head in all sorts of configurations/styles. The color or style is set to express respect, celebration, or even one’s important standing in the community. Well, these days, it is usually reserved for formal affairs such as weddings or festivals.
4. Bandi
The Bandi is pretty much this sleeveless jacket that men throw on top of the kurta. Overall, it really sharpens the whole outfit and looks grand. And men wear that at weddings, religious functions, or while attending big family events.
5. Footwear
Maharashtrian gents are mostly very stylishly wearing leather sandals. Among them, the most famous ones are called the Kolhapuri chappals, and they are handmade, super sturdy, and last practically forever.
Traditional Dress for Women In Maharashtra
1. Nauvari Saree (Lugade)
First of all, a nine-yard-long Nauvari saree is this extremely long saree, to be honest. And if you didn’t know it yet, well, nine yards is what Nauvari means. It is draped like a dhoti, which indeed makes it very convenient. Certainly, it is a style that women are using for farming or even dancing like that of Lavani.
2. Paithani Saree
Very heavily embellished and bright, the Paithani saree is kinda a perfect mix of both. It is made of silk and shiny gold threads throughout. Designs like peacocks, flowers, and vines are also engraved on the saree. Mostly, they are worn by women for those fancy weddings, mega festivals, etc.
Other sarees
Well, there certainly are some other varieties of sarees that women of Maharashtra like to wear. Here:
- Karvat Kati Saree is the one with trendy scissor-cut designs.
- Ganga-Jamuna Saree, which is an amazing choice with two borders representing the interplay of colors, is a most fitting optical delight, like two rivers meeting.
3. Choli (Blouse)
A choli is pretty much the blouse that women wear under a saree. Usually short and tight, most cholis have short sleeves, although there are long ones as well. Typically made of cotton or silk, they might be heavily embroidered.
4. Ghagra & Angarkha
Occasionally, women adorn a ghagra, especially a long skirt with a choli and an Angarkha-type top. That is, they wear such bright and very much traditional outfits while celebrating their festivals.
5. Footwear
Like men, women also wear Kolhapuri chappals to their feet. But in earlier days, many of them went barefoot, especially women from villages. On festive occasions, they wear such types of sandals or slippers.
Jewellery and Accessories
For Women
- Nath: This is a nose ring for festivals and wedding affairs.
- Mangal Sutra: A fancy black and gold necklace for married women.
- Green Bangles: Well, these usually indicate that a lady is married and emit positive energy.
- Toe Rings:Worn on the second toe, good for health and other things.
For Men
Men, however, don’t wear much jewellery, and just their turban and sandals are considered important accessories.