The nauvari is a nine-yard saree from Maharashtra. It is worn without a petticoat, and one end is drawn between the legs from front to back, so it falls like a dhoti and the wearer can move freely. This guide explains what a nauvari is, ten drape names, what to wear for which occasion, and a few styling tips. Drape names and details differ from one source to another, so treat the list as a general guide.
What is a Nauvari Saree?
“Nauvari” means nine yards, which is the length of the saree. A regular saree is six yards. It is worn without a petticoat. In the most common drape, the middle of the saree is tied at the waist and the cloth is wrapped around the legs, then the end goes over the shoulder. It is closely linked to Maharashtra, to Lavani dance, and to Maratha women, who are said to have worn it for ease of movement. You can read more at Utsavpedia.
Popular Nauvari Saree Draping Styles
1. Brahmani Nauvari Drape
A common drape for religious occasions, and often seen at Ganesh Chaturthi. It covers the front modestly and still lets you move. One source describes a zari or metallic border that shows on both the front and the back.
Good for: pujas and temple visits.
Styling tips: a nath (nose ring), temple jewellery and a bun with a gajra.
2. Marathi Lavani Drape
Lavani dancers wear the nauvari for performances. This version suits cultural events, dance programmes and sangeet.
Styling tips: bold makeup, chandbali earrings, and a ponytail or bun.
3. Kashta Drape (Warrior Style)
Kashta is the classic nauvari drape, with the cloth drawn between the legs like a dhoti. It is said to have been worn by women who needed to move freely, including in war.
Good for: haldi ceremonies and weddings with a heritage theme.
Styling tips: high hair, oxidised silver jewellery, with mojris or Kolhapuri chappals.
4. Koli Drape (Fisherwoman Style)
Worn by the Koli community. It is usually a simple, practical version, and one source describes it as two pieces: one tied at the waist and one covering the upper body.
Good for: festivals, folk events and dance.
Styling tips: keep it light, with glass bangles, open hair and jhumkas.
5. Pancha-Ang Vastra Drape
A style linked to royal tradition that covers five parts, including the waist, head and shoulders. It is mostly seen in royal processions and at historical events.
Good for: cultural plays and weddings with an old-style theme.
Styling tips: gold-plated jewellery, a chandrakor bindi and an embroidered blouse.
6. Kolhapuri Style Drape
A drape from the Kolhapur area. It is looser than the Brahmani style and more comfortable.
Good for: temple festivals and cultural events.
Styling tips: a nose ring, antique gold jewellery and a short-sleeved blouse.
7. Deshastha Brahmin Style
Worn by Maharashtrian Brahmin women, mostly on religious occasions. It has tightly pleated sections and a neatly folded pallu over the shoulder.
Good for: Satyanarayan Puja and Upanayanam.
Styling tips: a silk blouse, a choker and a traditional Marathi bindi.
8. Aagri Style Drape
Worn by the Aagri community, and similar to the Koli drape. One source describes a knee-length version made for work in water and fields.
Good for: folk dance and community events.
Styling tips: bright sarees with contrasting borders and light jewellery.
9. Pathare Prabhu Style
A lesser-known style with pleats and a neat pallu fall, mixing Marathi and colonial-era fashion.
Good for: retro-themed events and cultural reenactments.
Styling tips: pearls, vintage accessories and soft curls.
10. Vidarbha Style Nauvari
A drape from the eastern part of Maharashtra, with its own pleating and a sleeker look. It is usually seen at local celebrations.
Good for: folk events and traditional pujas.
Styling tips: a mix of silk and cotton, light gold jewellery and a low bun.
Occasions to Wear Nauvari Saree
- Weddings: A silk nauvari in a bright colour with a strong border. Yellow or green silk is a common choice for Maharashtrian brides.
- Festivals: Gudi Padwa and Ganesh Chaturthi are two occasions where it is worn. Semi-silk or cotton in red, mustard or green works well.
- Dance and drama: The Lavani look suits stage performances.
- Heritage days: Kashta or Koli styles give a traditional look.
Styling Tips for Nauvari Saree
- Blouse: Long or elbow-length sleeves with detailed embroidery.
- Footwear: Kolhapuri chappals or ethnic wedges.
- Hair and jewellery: A gajra, a chandrakor, and gold, oxidised or silver jewellery.
- Makeup: Bold kohl, matte lipstick and a maroon or red bindi.
A nauvari is a nine-yard saree with a long history in Maharashtra. Pick the drape by occasion: Brahmani for pujas, Kashta for heritage themes, Lavani for dance. For blouse ideas, see our Nauvari saree blouse designs. Another Maharashtrian classic is the Paithani, which is draped differently; read what a Paithani saree is. If you are looking for sarees to sell, see our wholesale sarees, or read about traditional dresses of Indian states.
