Onam, the festival that unites Malayalis across the globe, brings with it the beauty of tradition, culture, and elegance. Central to this celebration is the graceful Kerala Kasavu saree, with its iconic ivory body and shimmering golden border. The timeless beauty of this saree isn’t just in its appearance but also in the art of draping it with finesse.
Let’s take a closer look at the classic technique of draping a Kerala Kasavu saree for Onam, preserving its traditional charm while ensuring you stand out with poise.
Why the Kerala Kasavu Saree is Special for Onam
The Kerala Kasavu saree is deeply rooted in Kerala’s history. Woven with pure cotton and adorned with gold threads, this saree is symbolic of Kerala’s rich culture and spiritual heritage. During Onam, wearing this saree becomes an essential part of the festivities, representing the purity of the occasion and connecting wearers to their ancestral traditions.
The draping of this saree, though simple, holds a regal air that exudes grace. Whether you’re attending a family function or partaking in a temple visit during Onam, the Kerala Kasavu saree, when draped right, adds an extra layer of elegance.
The Classic Kerala Kasavu Draping Technique
Step 1: Preparation and Foundation
- Begin by wearing a well-fitted blouse and a petticoat. The blouse can be in traditional shades of gold, cream, or even a contrasting color like maroon or green for a festive touch.
- Ensure your petticoat matches the saree shade or is a neutral color that complements the overall look.
Step 2: The Waist Wrap
- Start by tucking one end of the saree into your petticoat, keeping the saree at floor length.
- Wrap the saree around your waist once, ensuring it sits evenly.
Step 3: Pleating the Front
- Now, pleat the front part of the saree neatly into around 6 to 8 pleats.
- These pleats should be even in size and tucked at the center of your waist, facing towards your left.
Step 4: Draping the Pallu
- Take the remaining portion of the saree and bring it around your body.
- Drape the pallu (the loose end of the saree) over your left shoulder. Traditionally, the pallu can either be left free, or you can pin it to your blouse for a more secure look.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- For a traditional Kerala look, the pallu is left hanging loose over the shoulder, with minimal pleats, allowing the gold border to shine.
- If you’re looking for a more structured finish, you can pleat the pallu and pin it neatly.
This simple yet elegant style ensures you embody the essence of Kerala while staying comfortable throughout the day’s celebrations.
Accessories to Elevate Your Look
While the Kerala Kasavu saree is minimalistic, you can enhance its beauty by accessorizing thoughtfully:
- Jewelry: Traditional gold jewelry, such as long chains, jhumkas, bangles, and temple-style necklaces, perfectly complements the golden border of the saree.
- Hair and Flowers: A simple bun adorned with fresh jasmine flowers is the epitome of elegance. Alternatively, loose waves or a braid with flowers will also bring a traditional touch.
- Makeup: Opt for a subtle, natural look with bold kajal and a nude or deep red lip to enhance your features while keeping it understated.
Onam and the Kerala Kasavu: A Symbol of Tradition
Onam is not just a celebration of harvest and abundance; it is a tribute to Kerala’s cultural heritage. Wearing the Kerala Kasavu saree during this festival is a way of honoring centuries of tradition, and its classic draping technique is central to maintaining this connection. Each fold, each pleat, and each golden shimmer reflects the purity and elegance of Kerala’s timeless beauty.
How do you wear your Kerala Kasavu saree for Onam? Do you prefer the traditional drape or have your own styling tricks to make it uniquely yours? Let’s celebrate this beautiful festival by sharing our own versions of tradition in the comments below!
Final Thoughts
The Kerala Kasavu saree is a celebration of tradition, and its classic draping technique is a skill worth mastering for Onam. Whether you choose to drape it in the simplest form or add subtle variations, the saree’s timeless beauty will always make you stand out. As we celebrate this joyous festival, let’s honor the elegance of the Kerala Kasavu and the tradition it represents.