Saree
Maheshwari sarees [Complete Guide]
All across the globe, people are wearing sarees. With the rising popularity of e-commerce, not only Indians but foreigners have also started taking on the trend. Many sarees from India are popular like Chanderi, Kanjivaram, Banarasi but have you seen those beautiful, shiny, and light Maheshwari sarees? Don’t you also want to buy them, they just look irresistible.
What is a Maheshwari Saree?
Maheshwari sarees are very popular across the country, they were initially made of silk but now they are also made of cotton. They have gained popularity in recent times as they are very functional and light to carry which is great for all Indian seasons.
Which state is known for Maheshwari Saree?
Maheshwari Sarees are from Maheshwar, a small town on the banks of Narmada in Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh, these sarees date back to the 18th century in the region. Maharani Ahilyabayi Holkar the then ruler of the state of Indore in the 18th century, her reign is also known as the golden age, she encouraged the art of weaving in her region through which a strong culture of handlooms came up in the Maheshwar. One fascinating story is about how she invited craftsmen from Malwa and Surat to design a 9 yards long saree which later got the name, “Maheshwari Saree”.
How were the sarees designed?
The designs and embellishments were inspired by local architectural designs, these sarees were earlier used for gifting purposes. Mat or “Chattai” pattern is a commonly spun pattern, “Chameli ka Phool”, “Eent” and “Heera” are common patterns in the design of these sarees
Is Maheshwari Cotton or Silk?
Initially, these sarees were made in pure silk but with time cotton has become common. Because these sarees are available in both silk and cotton, they have become multi-purpose. They are fit for both casual events and formal settings. Draping the saree gives an effortless and elegant look, since the saree is very light it is comfortable and convenient.
How many types of Maheshwari Saree?
There are 5 styles of Maheshwari sarees- Parbi, Chandrakala, Beli, Baingani Chandrakala, Chratara. Chandrakala and Baingani Chandrakala are plain and simple while Chandratara, Beli, and Parbi are chequered and give a formal look
What are the tools and raw materials used in making Maheshwari sarees?
Cotton, Silk, and Zari are ordered from different parts of the country. Charkha, Handloom, Dyeing Apparatus, and Warp Machine are used in the making of Maheshwari saree
How do they make Maheshwari Saree?
First, the designing process takes place, secondly, raw material is ordered and procured, the third step is dyeing the yarn, fourth is warping, weaving and in the end finishing of the saree happens.
What is the difference between Maheshwari and Chanderi?
People often get confused between Maheshwari and Chanderi, both come from two different towns of Madhya Pradesh, Chanderi has more detailed embellishments than Maheshwari. Maheshwari sarees are usually simple and of a linear pattern, while Chanderi uses more floral.
How do I clean my Maheshwari saree?
The saree is tough to maintain, a lot of people struggle in taking care of their Maheshwari Sarees as they need to be handled delicately but we have the right steps for you.
Maheshwari saree can be cleaned by sending to dry cleaner in the beginning. After some time, you can wash them at home with mild detergents. Without soaking them or keeping them wet for too much time, send them for drying.
Below are steps to clean Maheshwari saree.
- Maheshwari sarees are not only elegant but also require diligent care, you can clean your sarees in the beginning by sending them to the dry cleaner but later you can also wash them at home with mild detergents that don’t spoil the texture of the cloth.
- Do not soak the saree or dry it in direct sunlight, it should also not be kept bundled or wet for a long time.
- After wash, iron the saree out with a paper in between, make sure the saree is completely dry and has no creases, after that, you can hang it using a hanger, in order to maintain its shine,
- It is also suggested that order saree covers online and keep your Maheshwari sarees in them
- If you wear heavy jewelry, make sure that nothing gets stuck in the fabric of the saree
- Refrain from ironing them at a high temperature and always hang them in cupboards
- Every 15 days, leave them out in an open airy space/ verandah
Can I wash a Maheshwari Saree in a machine?
These sarees are very delicate and woven, if washed in a machine they will lose their texture. Due to its lightweight fabric, the saree should only be hand washed using very mild detergent, preferably first time should be dry cleaned.
How to accessorize a Maheshwari Saree?
First, you should decide what occasion you are wearing. The saree can be worn- in a formal, casual, festive or and different moods
- Hair- Hairstyles are great accessories, they enhance the look to another level. Your hairstyle should depend on the length of your hair, you can either choose to straighten and leave them open or you can choose to make a bun
- Jewelry- Your choice of jewelry should depend on the color and the overall look. If the saree is a simple design, then go for more heavy jewelry but if the saree is heavy or embellished then go for simple light earrings and rings.
- Makeup- Choose the makeup according to the time, day or night. Do sober makeup during the day with a lipstick of your choice and do shiny face makeup during the night. You can also put on a bindi if you like!
Top this look with a pretty smile, that’s your best accessory!
Overall these sarees are a great piece of clothing, they are a must-have in every woman’s closet. This beautiful multifunctional piece can be dressed up or down depending on your choice. Yes, you will have to take extra care of the saree but isn’t it just worth it?
