Rajasthan. As soon as the month of Sawan arrives, the land of Rajasthan becomes colored in a different color. When waves rise in the air amidst the clouds rising in the sky, the period of wearing 'Lahariya' begins across the state. Lahariya, which is considered a symbol of good luck, good fortune and happiness on the auspicious occasions of Hariyali Teej and Sawan, is not just a traditional garment but is the soul of Rajasthani culture. But do you know how much historical contribution former Maharani Gayatri Devi of Jaipur has made in making this traditional lehariya, chiffon and georgette the status of an 'International Fashion Icon' on the global stage?
Waves inspired by nature
The month of Saavan has special religious and cultural significance in Rajasthan. When there are black and white clouds on the blue sky, the 'Lahariya' design came into existence inspired by that natural beauty and the waves flowing in the wind. This garment with colorful horizontal stripes gives the message of monsoon showers, scattered greenery all around and new enthusiasm in life. For centuries, women have been wearing it with great enthusiasm on the festivals of Sawan and Teej.
Maharani Gayatri Devi's Royal Tadka
The work of giving new life and modern identity to the trend of lehariya and sarees was done by the Queen Mother of Jaipur, Maharani Gayatri Devi. She was not only a queen, but also a visionary personality. When she left the splendor of the palace and entered the field of public service and politics, she reached Parliament by winning with a huge majority and record votes. His simplicity, fearlessness and dignity won the hearts of every countryman.
When light sarees replaced heavy dresses There was a time when women in royal families used to wear only heavy 'Rajputi dresses'. Maharani Gayatri Devi made light chiffon and georgette sarees imported from Europe her style statement. Especially during the monsoons and summers, she preferred leheriyas and pastel shades of light chiffon and georgette instead of heavy fabrics. A beautiful pearl necklace around her neck, minimal make-up, short cut hair and a neatly placed pallu on her head – her simple and royal style was so attractive that the international fashion magazine 'Vogue' also included her among the most beautiful women in the world.
Amazing combination of tradition and modernity
Today, when women not only in Jaipur but also in India and abroad wear light georgette and chiffon lehariyas on the occasion of Sawan and Teej, they are reviving the same classic fashion legacy of Maharani Gayatri Devi. Maharani Gayatri Devi taught the world that along with traditions, modernity is also important with time.
Report: Deepanjali Mishra