Different Ways of Wearing a Sari

Different regions of India have their own distinct forms of draping a sari. These are some of the most common regional variations in sari style:

Gujarati: This version of draping, commonly known as the seedha pallu way, is also found in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar. Instead of opening to the left, the pleats are tucked so that they open to the right. Then, the pallu is taken to the back and brought over the right shoulder. It is then spread across the chest, and the left edge is tucked in the petticoat at the back.

Maharashtra: Instead of the usual 5 meters, the sari in this version measures 8 meters. One portion of the sari is drawn up between the legs and tucked in behind at the waist, while another portion is draped as a pallu over the bosom. This forms a kind of divided sari, allowing greater freedom of movement.

Tamilian: Like the Maharashtra version, this sari is 8 meters long. After wrapping around the waist, the pleats are positioned along the left leg. The rest of the sari is taken over the left shoulder, wrapped once again round the waist and tucked on the left side.

Bengali: The sari is worn pleatless. It is wrapped around the waist, brought back to the right side and the pallu is thrown over the left shoulder. The pallu is then brought up under the right arm and once again cast over the left shoulder.

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