Sarees have been India’s rich textile history for centuries. Among all, two outstanding saree types are the Paithani and the Peshwai sarees. Where Paithani sarees originated in the Paithan town in Aurangabad, the Peshwai saree is of the Deccan origin when Brahmin Peshwas ruled the kingdom of Maratha. Both bring eye-catching supremeness to the table.
So, how do you choose between these two gorgeous and royal options that will fit perfectly for your specific occasion? This is where understanding the key differences and similarities between Paithani and Peshwai sarees can help you.
Paithani Saree Characteristics:
● Weaving Techniques:
○ Paithani sarees are silk sarees made with split tapestry weave, interlocking method, and dobe-tailing waving weaving techniques.
○ Weaving a Paithani saree can take from 6 to 24 months.
○ Paithani sarees with complex designs can take more time than others.
○ The ornate zari borders of Paithani sarees are woven first.
○ The main body of this saree has a spotted or plain design with an iridescent effect created with the help of interweaving contrasting colors.
● Motifs:
○ You can shop for Paithani sarees with Morbangadi motif, munia brocade motif, and lotus brocade.
○ Weavers weave the motif onto the padar of the Paithani saree.
○ Sarees with the Morbangadi motif are the most expensive Paithani sarees.
○ You can shop for Paithani sarees with parrots weaved on the padar and even the border of these sarees.
○ There are 7 to 8 color options of lotus motifs woven on Paithani sarees.
● Colors:
○ You can shop for Paithani sarees of pure black color with a red border.
○ The popular saree colors include parrot green and pure white.
○ The colors of traditional Paithani sarees were quite rich and exotic, including yellow, vivid red, and blue.
○ The silk threads used to weave Paithani sarees are dyed beforehand, using vivid hues.
○ The bold as well as contrasting colors of Paithani saree are a result of a precise dyeing process.
● Geographical Origin:
○ Paithan is a region in Aurangabad, Maharashtra where these sarees were first made.
○ You will find showrooms in this region filled with the best Paithani saree collection.
○ Paithani sarees are made by hand in the Yeola town located in Nashik Maharashtra today.
● Cultural Significance:
○ The Satvahana Dynasty women in the 2nd century BC used to wear these sarees.
○ Greek Romans were also fond of wearing Paithani sarees over 2000 years ago.
○ Paithani sarees were a symbol of prestige and wealth for the Maratha royal families.
○ People in the past used to exchange this luxurious saree for gold.
○ Women wear Paithani sarees during special occasions and festivals to attract prosperity in life.
Peshwai Saree Characteristics:
● Weaving Techniques:
○ Peshwai sarees are silk or even cotton-silk blend sarees with decorative end-piece borders and pallus.
○ These sarees are typically handwoven by artisans with pure silk threads.
○ Peshwai sarees are hallmark of unique design elements and pure silk.
○ These elegant sarees are weaved by Indian craftsmen to preserve the Peshwai art form for generations to come.
○ The Peshwai sarees’ borders are weaved with geometric and floral patterns in mind by the artisans.
● Motifs:
○ Peshwai sarees can be identified by peacock motif on pallu and a coconut motif border.
○ You can shop for Peshwai sarees with lotuses, vines, and peacock motifs.
○ The design elements on this saree are the hallmarks of Peshwai saree.
○ The peacock motifs on these opulent silk sarees have helped them secure a special place in the hearts of saree-shopping enthusiasts.
○ The larger the size of a motif on the Peshwai saree, the more expensive it will be.
● Colors:
○ You can shop for Peshwai sarees of parrot green, royal blue, and mustard color.
○ The popular saree colors also include orange and bottle green.
○ The shimmering quality of the Peshwai saree further adds to its appeal.
○ The luster of a Peshwai saree is enhanced by the polished zari weaved on it.
○ The colorful collection of Peshwai saree makes it a prized possession indeed.
● Historical Context And Royal Patronage:
○ Peshwai sarees were a symbol of the Royal women of Maratha Kingdom.
○ The Brahmin also used to wear Peshwai sarees in the 18th century BC.
○ Mughal and Rajput royal families were fond of wearing the royal Peshwai sarees.
○ The textile artistry, Peshwai saree is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
○ Peshwai sarees are a masterpiece that was once crafted only to be owned by the rich class of society back then.
Key Differences and Similarities:
Paithani sarees as well as Peshwai sarees have been made with a lot of patience and precision by the local artisans. The art of making these sarees has been passed down to individuals as family heirlooms. The artistic charm of these elegant saree pieces make them a comfortable option for religious rituals as well as day long ceremonies. Here’s a detailed comparison table of design, fabric, cultural significance, when to wear.
|
Features |
Paithani Saree |
Peshwai Saree |
|
Design |
Handwoven Design With Rich Touch Of Zari Work, Peacocks And Floral Motifs, Sleek Geometrical Work, Bright And Exotic Colors Options. Yellow, Orange, Blue, And More. Single-Colored, Kaleidoscope-Colored. |
Silk And Cotton Blend Sarees With A Little Embroidery, Temple Borders, Nature Inspired Designs, Earthy And Soft Color Options. Red, Green, Yellow, White, And Other Colors Of Regal Appeal. |
|
Fabric |
Fine And Rich Silk |
Silk And Cotton |
|
Cultural Significance |
Worn By Women Of Satvahana Dynasty in 2nd Century BC. Greek Romans were also fond of Paithani Sarees. |
Symbol Of Royal Women Of Maratha Kingdom. Brahmin Peshwas in 18th Century BC were fond of Peshwai Sarees. Mughal and Rajput women also wore them. |
|
When To Wear |
Grand Celebrations, Family Weddings |
Religious Ceremonies, Festive Occasions |
When To Wear Each Type Of Saree:
Paithani Saree
Wear a Paithani saree to look best on intimate functions, family weddings, and traditional ceremonies. This weaver’s masterpiece is definitely worth flaunting on parties and formal events.
● Styling Tips For Paithani Saree
○ Drape Paithani saree in traditional style with Maharashtrian jewelry such as the famous gajra. Make a bun hairstyle with flowers to complement the look.
○ Wear Paithani saree with a boat neck or high-neck blouse. Make a stylish updo hairstyle for that formal event look.
○ Always wear the Paithani saree with a blouse that has a minimalistic neckline for casual occasions.
○ Experiment pairing Paithani saree with one trendy blouse of contrasting color or modern cut. Make a side-swept loose curl hairstyle for a chic party look.
○ Mix modern and traditional elements together for a fusion look. Experiment with unique Paithani drape styles, stylish clutch, and metallic jewelry.
○ Choose traditional jewelry for Marathi events with the Paithani saree to add a touch of cultural heritage to the overall look.
Peshwai Saree
Wear a Peshwai saree to look best on religious ceremonies and festive occasions. Take your modern take on style to the next level with a traditional Peshwai saree wearable on wedding and grand festivities.
● Styling Tips For Peshwai Saree
○ Wear Peshwai Paithni saree with one well-fitted blouse and drape the saree in traditional Maharashtrian style or Nauvari style without a petticoat.
○ Drape pallu of Peshwai saree elegantly over left shoulder for that pleasing look.
○ Accessorize Peshwai saree with a Nath and Bindi, along with a simple necklace and earrings.
○ Pair the Peshwai saree with a Thushi or a baju band to add that extra flair to the overall look.
○ Wear a Kolhapuri chappal that matches the Peshwai saree look. Choose a nosepin that complements the look.
○ Tuck the pleats of the Peshwai saree at the back for a dhoti-like look.
○ Keep the pleats of Peshwai saree in place with the help of safety pins.
Expert Opinions:
Historians, weavers, and experts have their own take on Paithani and Peshwai sarees. The timeless apparel and its touch of sophistication are not limited to a specific class of admirers anymore. Here is what each one of them has to say about the simplicity and grace of these gems of Maharashtra.
The Weaver’s Take
“Making Paithani sarees is an art only skilled weavers can do. Sometimes we can make a Paithani saree in 6 months and most of the time it takes more than a year to complete. Everything depends on the design and experience of the weaver who makes them.” - Aalok Shinde, Handloom Weaver.
“A handwoven Peshwai saree with beautiful zari work is the pride of a Maharashtrian woman. As a skilled weaver of Peshwai saree, I put in a lot of effort into designing graceful and traditionally rich saree pieces that enhance their elegance, be it on festive days or formal occasions.” - Balaji Deshpande, Handloom Weaver.
The Designer’s Take
“Paithani saree is Maharashtra’s most worn symbol of tradition as well as heritage. The motifs on this saree like geometric patterns and peacocks have been inspired by mythology and nature. It is a celebrity favorite in B-Town because of its luxurious feel and unique color palette.” Chhaya Kulkarni, Designer.
“Nothing competes with the cultural significance and vibrancy that Peshwai sarees bring to the table. The easily identifiable designs and patterns of Peshwai sarees are why they thrive even today. I always ask my models to pose well with Peshwai saree’s fancy rich pallu. I ask them to pair it with a contrast blouse for that modern fusion look.” - Esha Patil, Designer.
The Historian’s Take
“Paithani sarees are a traditionally rich masterpiece that first adorned the silhouette of women during the Satvahana Dynasty. The weaving techniques as well as Paithani saree designs have certainly evolved in all this time but they have remained intact in the Maharashtra handloom industry.” - Yogi Chaatre, Historian.
“Peshwai saree is a highly prized possession that was first designed in 1630AD with a distinct border and palla design. The Maratha Kingdom was the first one to closely observe the weavers’ passion and indulge in this silk and cotton combination. The influence of Peshwai sarees on the Maharashtrian woman has been tremendous ever since.” - Gitali Bhide, Historian.
Conclusion:
Paithani and Peshwai sarees are the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra. They can take from 6 to 24 months to complete. The complex designs of a Paithani saree or a Peshwai saree decide the time a handloom weaver will take to complete it.
Paithani sarees with Morbangadi motif and lotus brocade are quite popular. The coconut motif border and peacock motif pallu of a Peshwai saree also makes it a popular choice for shoppers. Women with bold color choices can shop for a Paithani saree any day. A Peshwai saree lustre and shimmering quality makes it a prized possession.
Women looking for a fine rich silk saree can shop for the Paithani saree. And women looking for a silk and cotton blend option can consider shopping for a Peshwai saree instead. Wear a Paithani saree on grand celebrations and the Peshwai saree on religious ceremonies to look your ethnic best. Learn to style them the classic Maharashtrian style to look chic and classy any day.