Maharashtra, one of the largest states in India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional attire. The traditional dress of Maharashtra reflects the history, culture, and climate of the region. Clothing styles vary across the state, influenced by factors like geographical location, religion, and occasion. Let’s explore the various elements of Maharashtrian traditional dress and their significance.

1. Traditional Attire for Men

Dhoti and Kurta (or Pheta)

The traditional dress for men in Maharashtra is the dhoti, paired with a kurta or a shirt. The dhoti is a long piece of cloth that is wrapped around the waist and tied in a knot. In some regions, it is worn short, and in others, it reaches down to the ankles. The kurta is a loose-fitting, knee-length shirt worn over the dhoti.

Another important part of men’s attire is the pheta, a type of turban. It is usually worn during formal or festive occasions. Traditionally, the pheta was a symbol of pride, honor, and respect. The pheta is usually saffron or white, though other colors can also be worn.

Key Points:

• Dhoti: A rectangular cloth wrapped around the waist.
• Kurta: A knee-length shirt.
• Pheta: A traditional turban, symbolizing pride and honor.

Dhotar and Bandhni

Another variation of the traditional men’s attire in Maharashtra includes the dhotar (a type of dhoti) and bandhni (a type of turban). The bandhni is typically worn in a style specific to the region, often wrapped in intricate and artistic ways.

Key Points:

• Dhotar: A longer variation of the dhoti.
• Bandhni: A style of wearing the turban with intricate folds.

2. Traditional Dress of Maharashtra for Woman

Nauvari Saree

The Nauvari saree is one of the most iconic and traditional dresses of Maharashtrian women. The word “Nauvari” means nine yards, which refers to the length of the saree. This type of saree is distinct because of how it is draped. Unlike the usual six-yard saree, the Nauvari saree is draped in a way that resembles a dhoti, allowing more freedom of movement.

Traditionally, Nauvari sarees were worn by women warriors during the Maratha period as it provided ease in performing daily activities, including horseback riding and combat. This saree is usually paired with a choli (blouse) and adorned with traditional Maharashtrian jewelry.

Key Points:

• Nauvari Saree: A nine-yard saree worn in a dhoti style.
• Choli: A traditional blouse.
• Maharashtrian Jewelry: Intricate ornaments that add to the beauty of the attire.

Paithani Saree

Another important and highly revered traditional dress is the Paithani saree. Named after the town of Paithan, this saree is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious silk fabric. The Paithani saree is usually worn during weddings, festivals, and other significant occasions.

These sarees are characterized by their rich silk material, vibrant colors, and intricate golden zari borders. The Paithani saree is a symbol of wealth and elegance in Maharashtra and is often passed down through generations as a treasured heirloom.

Key Points:

• Paithani Saree: A luxurious silk saree known for its golden zari borders.
• Craftsmanship: Handwoven with great precision and detail.
• Symbol of Status: Worn during special occasions.

Lugade

In some rural parts of Maharashtra, women wear a variation of the saree known as Lugade. Similar to the Nauvari, the Lugade is a nine-yard saree draped in a traditional style, but it is typically worn without a petticoat. It is simple, practical, and reflects the local culture of the region.

Key Points:

• Lugade: A practical version of the nine-yard saree.
• Simplicity: Worn by women in rural areas for daily tasks.

3. Traditional Accessories and Jewelry

Traditional Maharashtrian attire is incomplete without the right accessories and jewelry. Maharashtrian women are known for their love of gold ornaments, and each piece holds cultural and religious significance.

Nath (Nose Ring)

The Nath is an essential piece of Maharashtrian jewelry. This nose ring is worn by married women, especially during festivals and weddings. The Nath is usually made of gold and studded with pearls and other precious stones, adding elegance to the traditional attire.

Key Points:

• Nath: A gold nose ring, symbolizing marital status.
• Design: Typically adorned with pearls and precious stones.

Kolhapuri Saaj

The Kolhapuri Saaj is a type of traditional necklace worn by Maharashtrian women. It has 21 leaves, each representing a different aspect of life. This necklace is a symbol of prosperity and is often gifted to brides as part of their wedding jewelry.

Key Points:

• Kolhapuri Saaj: A necklace with 21 leaves.
• Significance: Represents prosperity and well-being.

Green Glass Bangles

Green glass bangles are another important accessory for Maharashtrian women. Green symbolizes fertility and prosperity and is typically worn by married women. These bangles are often worn in large numbers, making a distinct jingling sound that is both beautiful and culturally significant.

Key Points:

• Green Glass Bangles: Worn by married women.
• Symbolism: Represents fertility and prosperity.

Chandra Kor Bindi

A unique element of the Maharashtrian women’s attire is the Chandra Kor Bindi. It is a half-moon-shaped bindi worn on the forehead, especially during special occasions like weddings and religious festivals.

Key Points:

• Chandra Kor Bindi: A half-moon-shaped bindi worn on the forehead.
• Occasion: Typically worn during festivals and weddings.

4. Influence of Festivals and Weddings

Festivals and weddings in Maharashtra are occasions for displaying the best of traditional attire. Both men and women take pride in wearing their cultural dresses during events such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and weddings.

Men’s Festive Wear

During festive occasions, men often wear a more elaborate version of their daily attire. The dhoti and pheta are worn with intricate embroidery, and silk materials are preferred over cotton. Sometimes, men wear sherwanis or kurta-pyjamas for weddings and religious ceremonies.

Key Points:

• Festive Attire for Men: Embroidered dhotis, silk kurta, and pheta.
• Sherwani: Worn for weddings and formal events.

Women’s Festive Wear

Women, on the other hand, wear lavish sarees like the Paithani or Banarasi saree, paired with heavy Maharashtrian jewelry. The color red is often preferred during weddings, symbolizing auspiciousness. Women also wear ornate naths, bangles, and necklaces during such occasions.

Key Points:

• Festive Sarees: Paithani and Banarasi sarees are common.
• Jewelry: Heavily adorned with gold, naths, and green glass bangles.

5. Evolution of Traditional Dress

Though Maharashtrian traditional attire remains popular, modern clothing styles have also made their way into everyday life. In urban areas, women often wear modern sarees or salwar kameez, while men have adopted pants and shirts. However, during festivals, religious ceremonies, and weddings, people still wear traditional Maharashtrian dress to honor their roots and cultural heritage.

Key Points:

• Modern Influence: Western-style clothing is common in cities.
• Preservation of Tradition: Traditional dress is still worn during festivals and weddings.

Conclusion: Traditional Dress of Maharashtra

The traditional dress of Maharashtra is a vibrant and integral part of the state’s rich culture. While modern influences have shaped everyday attire, the importance of traditional clothing during festivals and formal events remains strong. From the Nauvari saree and Paithani saree for women to the dhoti and pheta for men, these garments are not just clothing but a symbol of Maharashtra’s heritage, pride, and identity.

By embracing both modern and traditional styles, Maharashtrians continue to celebrate their culture through fashion.