Saree Draping Styles Quiz: Nivi, Gujarati, Bengali and More

The most common drape: Nivi

The Nivi drape, which comes from Andhra Pradesh, is the style most people picture: the saree is tucked into the petticoat, pleated at the front, and the pallu goes over the left shoulder and falls at the back.

Regional drapes

• Gujarati (seedha pallu): the pallu comes from the back over the right shoulder and is spread across the front, showing off its design. It is popular for Bandhani and Gharchola sarees.
• Bengali: traditionally worn without front pleats, with the pallu brought over the left shoulder and sometimes a bunch of keys tied to its end.
• Maharashtrian Nauvari: a nine-yard saree tucked at the back between the legs (kashta style), giving freedom of movement.
• Coorgi (Kodava): the pleats are at the back, and the pallu goes over the right shoulder and is pinned.

Two-piece traditions

• Mekhela chador (Assam): a lower wrap (mekhela) and an upper drape (chador), often in Muga or Pat silk.
• Mundum neriyathum (Kerala): two pieces, usually off-white with a gold kasavu border.

Getting a saree ready to wear

• Petticoat (inskirt): the drawstring underskirt the saree is tucked into.
• Fall: a strip of fabric stitched along the lower inner edge to add weight, help the saree drape and protect the border.
• Pico: a narrow machine finish on raw edges, such as the pallu end, so they do not fray.

Retailers who offer fall and pico with each saree, or sell ready-to-wear (pre-stitched) sarees, make life easier for buyers. Try the famous sarees of India quiz next.