GUJARATI STYLE

GUJARATI STYLE:

The Gujarati style saree draping, also known as the Seedha Pallu drape, is a traditional way of wearing a saree that is particularly popular in the Indian state of Gujarat. This style is distinct and easily recognizable, primarily because of how the pallu (the loose end of the saree) is draped over the shoulder.

गुजराती शैलीतील साडी ड्रेपिंग, ज्याला सीधा पल्लू ड्रेप देखील म्हणतात, ही साडी घालण्याची एक पारंपारिक पद्धत आहे जी विशेषतः भारतीय गुजरात राज्यात लोकप्रिय आहे. ही शैली वेगळी आणि सहज ओळखता येण्याजोगी आहे, मुख्यतः पल्लू (साडीचा सैल टोक) खांद्यावर कसा लपेटला जातो.

Key Features of the Gujarati Style Saree:

1. Saree Length and Fabric:

   • The saree used for Gujarati draping is typically 5.5 to 6 yards long.
   • Common fabrics include cotton, silk, georgette, and chiffon, depending on the occasion. Bandhani (tie-dye) sarees are particularly popular in Gujarat and are often draped in this style.

1. Draping Method:

   • Tucking the Saree: The saree is first tucked into the petticoat at the waist, beginning from the right side and wrapping around the body towards the left. 
   • Pleats: After wrapping the saree around the waist, pleats are made and tucked into the petticoat at the front, usually slightly to the left of the navel.
   • Seedha Pallu: Unlike the more common Nivi style where the pallu is draped over the left shoulder from back to front, in the Gujarati style, the pallu is draped over the right shoulder from front to back. The pallu is spread across the chest, and the end of it hangs loosely over the right shoulder at the back.
   • Securing the Pallu: The pallu can either be left loose or pinned securely to the shoulder to keep it in place. The front pleats of the pallu are often left to flow freely, creating an elegant and graceful look.

1. Cultural Significance:

   • The Gujarati drape is often worn during weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. It is a traditional and auspicious way to wear a saree, particularly among Gujarati brides, who often wear richly embellished sarees in this style.
   • The Seedha Pallu drape is considered modest and respectful, as it covers the torso fully and is suitable for traditional and ceremonial occasions.

1. Types of Sarees Often Draped in Gujarati Style:
   • Bandhani Sarees: These sarees feature intricate tie-dye patterns and are a signature of Gujarati and Rajasthani culture. They are vibrant and colorful, making them perfect for festive occasions.
   • Patola Sarees: Known for their exquisite double ikat weaving, Patola sarees are luxury items often worn by brides in Gujarat.
   • Gharchola Sarees: Traditionally worn by Gujarati brides, these sarees are characterized by their grid-like pattern with small zari motifs and are often draped in the Seedha Pallu style.

1. Accessories and Styling:

   • The Gujarati style saree is typically paired with traditional jewelry, such as Kundan or Polki sets, bangles, and the Mangalsutra (a necklace symbolizing marriage).
   • The saree is worn with a fitted blouse, which can be heavily embellished or simple, depending on the occasion.
   • Hair is often styled in a bun or braid, adorned with fresh flowers, or with traditional hair accessories.

1. Modern Adaptations:

   • While the traditional Seedha Pallu drape remains popular, modern adaptations include pre-stitched sarees or lehenga-sarees that mimic the Gujarati drape but are easier to wear.
   • Fashion designers have also experimented with this style, incorporating contemporary fabrics, embroidery, and colors to create fusion looks that blend tradition with modern aesthetics.

Symbolism:

The Gujarati style saree drape is a symbol of tradition and cultural identity in Gujarat. It is often associated with marital status and is considered an auspicious style, especially for brides and during religious ceremonies. The elegance and grace of the Seedha Pallu drape make it a timeless and cherished way of wearing a saree.

This style continues to be celebrated not only in Gujarat but also across India and among the Gujarati diaspora worldwide, embodying the rich cultural heritage of the region.

प्रतीकवाद:

गुजराती शैलीतील साडी हा गुजरातमधील परंपरा आणि सांस्कृतिक अस्मितेचे प्रतीक आहे. हे सहसा वैवाहिक स्थितीशी संबंधित असते आणि विशेषत: नववधूंसाठी आणि धार्मिक समारंभांदरम्यान ती एक शुभ शैली मानली जाते. सीधा पल्लू ड्रेपची अभिजातता आणि कृपा ती साडी नेसण्याचा एक कालातीत आणि प्रेमळ मार्ग बनवते.

ही शैली केवळ गुजरातमध्येच नव्हे तर संपूर्ण भारतामध्ये आणि जगभरातील गुजराती डायस्पोरामध्ये साजरी केली जात आहे, या प्रदेशाच्या समृद्ध सांस्कृतिक वारशाचे मूर्त स्वरूप आहे.

BACK TO CLOTHING CULTURE IN INDIA CLICK HERE.