Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most special Indian festivals celebrated across the nooks and corners of the country. Maharashtra celebrates the festival as it owns it and it is a delight to the eyes and visitors alike. Just like during the Durga Puja, West Bengal comes alive with the festivities, pandals and celebrations at every corner; during Ganesh Chaturthi, Maharashtrians celebrate with pandal hopping, getting ready and women wear the Marathi Nauvari saree to look like a traditional mulgi in the attire.

At the heart of it is the striking Nauvari saree, a nine-yard drape that wraps around the body in a distinctive dhoti-like style, paired with a traditional blouse, Maharashtrian nath, green bangles, gold jewellery and a neat bun adorned with gajra. Unlike a conventional saree, the Nauvari is structured for movement, giving the wearer an elegant yet spirited silhouette. This Ganesh Chaturthi, do not miss the chance to wear a Marathi Mulgi aesthetic; here is a complete guide to draping and styling the look for ease and an authentic overall look.

What makes the Marathi Mulgi look special during Ganesh Chaturthi?

Rooted in Maharashtra's tradition and festive culture. The Nauvari saree is one of the most recognisable elements of each celebration in Marathi homes. The name Nauvari comes from 'nau,' meaning nine, and refers to the saree's traditional nine-yard length. Unlike the common six-yard length, Nauvari is draped between the legs in a dhoti-like style. This distinctive appearance gives it a very different look and makes walking, sitting and moving easier.

Over the generations, the Nauvari has become an integral part of the celebrations in Maharashtrian culture such as weddings, festivals and cultural performances or religious celebrations. During Ganesh Chaturthi, its vibrant colours, traditional jewellery and graceful silhouette complement the festive atmosphere beautifully.

What you need for a traditional Marathi Mulgi look?

  • A nine-yard Nauvari saree
  • A fitted traditional blouse or choli
  • Safety pins
  • Maharashtrian nath
  • Green glass bangles
  • Gold or gold-tone traditional jewellery
  • Gajra
  • Bindi
  • Kolhapuri-style jewellery, such as thushi or a traditional necklace
  • Optional kamarpatta or waist belt
  • Comfortable footwear, preferably traditional flats or Kolhapuri-style sandals
For beginners, one can also opt for comfortable options beneath the saree for ease of walking and to avoid any incidencts to take place. The traditional Nauvari drape itself does not require a conventional petticoat because the fabric forms the lower-body structure. 

How to drape Marathi Mulgi Look?

Draping a nine-yard is itself an art that needs to be mastered. With a basic understanding of the structure the process becomes easier. Unlike the regular saree, Nauvari has enough length to create a distinctive lower-body drape.

  1. Start by identifying the approximate centre of the saree, tuck the fabric securely around the waist and make sure the length is distributed evenly.
  2. Keep the saree slightly above the ankle to allow the hem to drag on the floor. To avoid any incidents with the saree sweeping the floor during aarti or pandal hopping.
  3. Wrap the saree around the waist; keep the fabric reasonably snug but not tight.
  4. The first wrap should sit securely around the waist because the entire drape depends on this foundation. If the base is loose, the pleats and leg drape can shift while walking.
  5. Take the fabric towards the front and create several even pleats.
  6. The exact number of pleats can vary depending on the saree and the look you prefer.
  7. Take the remaining fabric between the legs and bring it towards the back, creating the dhoti-like division.
  8. The fabric is then tucked securely at the back of the waist.
  9. This Kashta tuck is what separates the Nauvari from a conventional saree and allows the wearer greater freedom of movement.
  10. Bring the remaining fabric up towards the torso and arrange the pallu neatly over the shoulder.
  11. For a festive appearance, keep the pallu pleated rather than letting it look bulky or uneven.
  12. Pin it discreetly at the shoulder so that it stays in place while you move around.

Nauvari Saree colours to pick for Ganesh Chaturthi 2026

For Ganesh Chaturthi, you do not have to restrict yourself to one particular colour. You can pick from a variety of bright and cheerful colours that define the festivities and welcome happy celebrations. Traditional festive shades such as:

  • Kesari or saffron
  • Bright yellow
  • Red
  • Green
  • Magenta
  • Purple
  • Royal blue
  • Deep pink

Marathi Mulgi Look Key Guide

Aspect Key Details
Saree Type Traditional 9-yard Nauvari Saree (Dhoti-style drape, no petticoat required)
Festive Colors Kesari (Saffron), Bright Yellow, Red, Green, Magenta, Purple, Royal Blue, Deep Pink
Traditional Jewelry Maharashtrian Nath, Kolhapuri Thushi (Necklace), Kamarpatta (Waist belt), Gold ornaments
Key Accessories Green glass bangles, Crescent moon/Chandrakor bindi, Fresh Gajra for a neat hair bun
Footwear Comfortable traditional flats or Kolhapuri-style sandals (Ideal for pandal hopping)
Combine the saree with a Maharashtrian saree with a traditional nath, bangles, bindi, gold jewellery and gajra or other accessories for a complete Marathi Mulgi look. Ensure you wear comfortable footwear if you are going to hop pandals in Mumbai. Marathi saree looks may vary from region to region, so it depends on the pleates on how you drape it to get the accurate look as per your style for perfect Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in 2026.
Ganesh Chaturthi is the grandest celebration for each localite living in Maharashtra and it is one of the most awaited festivals celebrated by the communities living here with various traditions and culture but with a sense of coming together and welcoming Bappa to each home with dhol, tashe, modaks, pandals, decorations and lots of dancing and songs being played throughout the mandaps of Maharashtra. 

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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AspectKey DetailsSaree TypeTraditional 9-yard Nauvari Saree (Dhoti-style drape, no petticoat required)Festive ColorsKesari (Saffron), Bright Yellow, Red, Green, Magenta, Purple, Royal Blue, Deep PinkTraditional JewelryMaharashtrian Nath, Kolhapuri Thushi (Necklace), Kamarpatta (Waist belt), Gold ornamentsKey AccessoriesGreen glass bangles, Crescent moon/Chandrakor bindi, Fresh Gajra for a neat hair bunFootwearComfortable traditional flats or Kolhapuri-style sandals (Ideal for pandal hopping)