Woven with culture. Draped in pride.
Maharashtra is not just a state- a soul. And everywhere throughout that soul, sarees talk of a language of tradition, art, and unsurpassed sophistication. Whether it is the boldness of Paithani or the grace of Nauvari, Maharashtra sarees are not just fashion statements, but cultural heritage.
Suppose you’ve ever admired the dignified drape of a Maharashtrian woman or found yourself in awe of a bride walking in a resplendent Paithani. In that case, you’ve already been embraced by the legacy of these sarees.
To understand this in more detail and learn more about the most memorable of all sarees originating in Maharashtra, their heritage, and the ways to style them in both cases, whether you want to revisit your ancestral piece or test the robes of Maharashtra sarees as the first experience, we will find out in this blog.
And these Maharashtra sarees are a perfect blend of culture, craftsmanship, and class. However, when one wants to explore them with originality and expertise, such individuals venture out to Mavuri, the one-stop destination for sarees.
Types of Maharashtra Sarees
1. Paithani Saree – The Queen of Silks
Regal. Timeless. An actual work of art.
The original Paithani saree is named after the town of Paithan in Aurangabad and is handwoven from rich silk with intricate peacock motifs, lotus designs, and distinctive pallu work featuring gold zari.
Traditionally, these sarees are gifted to brides, passed down through generations, and preserved like treasure.
Key Features
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Pure silk body
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Gold or silver zari borders
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Handwoven motifs (peacocks, lotuses, parrots)
Occasions: Weddings, festivals, naming ceremonies
2. Nauvari Saree – Power in Nine Yards
Nauvari saree, in its literal meaning, is nine yards. It is not only beauty but power, tradition, and flexibility of the motions. It can be worn in the form of a dhoti, and women can walk, dance (and even ride horses) without undermining their class.
It is widely practiced in Lavani dance forms and remains a trend in celebrations such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Gudi Padwa, and Maharashtrian Weddings.
Key Features
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She was attired with no petticoat, wrapped in a covering up
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Cotton and silk garments
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Dhoti-style wear
Occasion: Cultural events, religious functions, classical dance shows, entertainment, weddings, and festivals.
3. Karvati Kati Saree – The Hidden Gem
Lesser-known beauty originates in the Vidarbha region of the state of Maharashtra. This is a style where borders resemble teeth, cut into the material like saw teeth.
Cotton weave is lightweight and provides ventilation, making it suitable for everyday wear in various places throughout the state, especially in warmer regions.
Key Features
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Zig-zag borders
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Fine cotton texture
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Minimal yet elegant patterns
Occasions: Everyday wear, casual family functions
4. Ilkal Saree – Borderlines of Tradition
Traditionally, the Ilkal saree originated in Karnataka, but it also has a strong cultural foundation in the districts of southern Maharashtra, particularly in Solapur and Kolhapur. These plain yet cute dresses with red-and-white edging are a common feature in every local woman's wardrobe.
Key Features
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Contrast borders
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Traditional “tope teni” motifs
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Cotton-silk blend
Occasions: Temple visits, office wear, minor pujas
Tradition Woven In Every Thread
Each Maharashtrian saree tells a story:
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Paithani speaks of royal courts and bridal rituals
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Nauvari echoes the spirit of warrior queens like Rani Lakshmibai.
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Karvati Kati represents the simplicity of Vidarbha.
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Ilkal connects rural roots with understated beauty.
These aren’t just fabrics—they’re voices of generations of women who wore their strength, pride, and stories in six (or nine) yards of grace.
And if you’re searching for sarees that hold this authenticity and emotion, know that Mavuri sells only sarees, making them not just a brand, but a curator of India’s woven heritage.
How to Style Maharashtra Sarees
Women in the modern age are fond of combining the traditional and the contemporary. It is how to wear such classic sarees and give them your original flavour:
1. Paithani – Make It Royal, Make It You
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Blouse: Opt for a high-neck blouse with elbow-length sleeves, or a backless one with subtle embroidery.
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Jewellery: There is no holding back. Jewellery: Go full board - traditional Kolhapuri saaj, chandbalis, and gold bangles.
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Hair: A bun adorned with fresh gajra is timeless.
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Occasion Styling: Complete your festive look with a bindi and a silk potli.
2. Nauvari – Empower the Drape
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Blouse: Opt for a sleeveless blouse or jacket-style crop top for a fusion feel.
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Footwear: Kolhapuris or embellished juttis.
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Jewellery: Nath, oxidized nose rings, and temple jewellery work wonders.
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Bonus Tip: Pair with a leather belt around the waist for a bold, Indo-contemporary look.
3. Karvati Kati – Less Is Luxurious
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Blouse: Go with a hand-block printed blouse or a sleeveless linen crop top.
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Accessories: Minimal silver jewellery—long chains, delicate bangles.
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Hair: Keep it natural. A messy bun or loose braid works well.
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Workwear Ready: Pair with a neutral tote or sling bag for a professional look on office days.
4. Ikal – Softness with Substance
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Blouse: Contrasting shades in cotton or khadi for a raw appeal.
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Jewellery: Terracotta or beaded necklaces to keep it earthy.
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Shoes: Mojris or flats.
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Everyday Ease: Throw on a denim jacket for a casual look on your next outing.
Why Mavuri Is the Perfect Place to Find Them
Because Mavuri does more than stock sarees—they understand them. Every Maharashtra saree at Mavuri is handpicked not just for its appearance, but for what it will bring in the future.
They honor the loom-woman. They respect the tradition. And they deliver you sarees which came fresh out of the loom, which smell of stories.
Whether it's your grand wedding or a special occasion, whether it's a huge Paithani or a breathable Karvati Kati, Mavuri handpicks each design as though it were a part of their heritage.
Final Thoughts
Maharashtra sarees are not merely local attire. They are a living embodiment of identity —a fusion of tradition, utility, art, and emotion.
Wearing one does not mean you are wearing just a costume, but rather, you are taking part in the rich Indian cultural heritage.
That way, the next time you drape yourself in a regal Paithani or tie the dhoti-style Nauvari, you’ll know you’re not just wearing a saree—you’re continuing a legacy. And if you're wondering where to begin your journey with authentic, heartfelt weaves, remember—at Mavuri, sarees aren’t just sold, they’re cherished. And that makes all the difference.
