Diwali and Beyond: Sarees and their Cultural Significance in the 5 Days of Festivity

The festival of lights is a joyful time in Indian culture. Diwali is not only significant for its vibrant lights but is also extremely significant in Hinduism. It is a symbol of victory of good over evil and marks the Hindu New Year. 

The diwali 5 days importance depends on each day and brings its own significance. These auspicious days are:

1. Dhanteras
2. Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)
3. Diwali
4. Govardhan Puja
5. Bhai Dooj

Each day has its own set of customs, rituals, and traditional attire. Among these, the role of sarees is particularly intriguing. Today, we will dive deeper into the ideal saree for diwali and why. 

 

The Saree Significance in Diwali Celebrations

Like any Indian festival, sarees have been an integral part of our culture for centuries. Diwali, being one of the most important festivals of the nation, witnesses exceptional sarees for festivals. 

The importance of saree in Indian culture is not just limited to beauty but it transcends to tradition, art, and identity. They signify grace and elegance, making them perfect festivals wear. Women appreciate wearing a saree for puja as it is a way of paying homage to our rich heritage and celebrating our culture.

The choice of saree colours and styles during Diwali holds deep cultural significance as well.  Bright and vibrant colours like red, yellow, and orange are believed to bring prosperity and happiness. However, some regions follow unique traditions that set them apart. 

Sarees for Each Day of Diwali: Traditional and Modern Choices

Dhanteras Saree

Dhanteras, loosely translated to the thirteenth day of the month, is auspicious for monetary gain. This day in the lunar month of Krishna Paksha marks the beginning of Diwali festivities, and it is believed that purchasing gold and silver on this day brings prosperity. 

The preferred dhanteras saree is usually in the colours gold or yellow, signifying the abundance of wealth. Fabrics like silk and brocade are favoured for their opulence, beauty, and purity. You can also find motifs such as coins, lamps, and floral patterns on these. The motifs signify monetary prosperity and good fortune.

Choti Diwali/Kali Chaudas Saree

Choti Diwali, also known as Kali Chaudas, is the second day of Diwali celebrations. It is associated with warding off evil. Wearing dark colours like black or blue symbolises protection from negative energies. However, in Hindu culture, wearing black clothes for ritualistic events is prohibited. Hence, it is ideal to opt for dark colours in blue, green, purple etc. 

The kali chaudas saree features intricate embroidery or embellishments that add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Woven in pure gold and silver zari, these sarees also resonate with the idea of wealth and abundance on Diwali. 

Interestingly, certain cultures or families wear dark-coloured clothes due to other reasons. The royal family of Jaipur has a sad history related to Diwali, where the death of a former ruler prevented them from celebrating it vibrantly. Hence, to date, they wear dark blue colours in solace. 

Diwali Day Saree

The most auspicious day of all, Diwali, is the day when people adorn themselves in resplendent new clothes to welcome the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, into their homes. The entire house is cleaned and decorated with floral arrangements, lamps, and fragrances. 

It is only suitable for the women of the house to deck up in the most resplendent attires that include the best festival saree for diwali. Vibrant hues in red, orange, and pink are popular choices, symbolising joy and festivity. To stand out, you can also try intricate drapes and pallu designs and add an extra touch of glamour to the attire. To complete the look, open your closet and take out your treasured jewellery pieces, adorn yourself with them to denote prosperity. 

Please note: Just as a precaution, drape your saree properly and avoid any loose ends. Diwali is a time with lots of live lamps, and any loose fabric might lead to an unwanted incident. So, tuck it properly and enjoy the day with ease. 

Govardhan Puja Saree

The next day after Diwali is the Govardhan Puja. Mythologically, this day narrates the story of Lord Krishna and his act of raising the Govardhan mountain in order to save his village from Lord Indra’s temper. 

On this day, women pick a traditional saree for Govardhan Pooja. These festival sarees showcase minimal designs and muted colours and are preferred to maintain the solemnity of the occasion. Since there are several rituals involved, it is ideal to pick a lightweight saree in cotton or soft silk to help you manage your work comfortably.

Bhai Dooj Outfits

Just like Raksha Bandhan, Bhai Dooj is a celebration of the bond between siblings. The best way to celebrate this occasion is to wear coordinated clothes and shower each other with love. 

Nowadays, bhai dooj outfits are more trendy than traditional. You can see a variety of subtle prints and minimal embroidery. People prefer comfort over anything else, and hence, such festive designer sarees are a breath of fresh air. 

The Cultural Heritage: Sarees and Puja Rituals

Sarees have always been an essential element of various Diwali rituals. The grace and elegance of the six yards symbolise purity and devotion. The rich history associated with them reflected India’s diversity. 

Each region has its own significance of saree for Diwali. In the north, women wear intricate banarasi sarees with brocade work. The southern women opt for solid colours with heavy borders. In the West, traditional buta motifs are dominant, while in the East, the handloom cotton sarees are eternal. This variation brilliantly showcases regional influences yet connects them all into a common thread. 

 

Modern Trends: Festive Designer Sarees

Contemporary saree designers have redefined festivals wear, infusing traditional designs with a modern twist. These sarees are perfect for those who want to embrace tradition while staying fashion-forward.

For those of you looking to break away from tradition, trendy, fusion sarees offer a fresh perspective, blending elements of Western fashion with the elegance of sarees.

The Everlasting Charm of Sarees in Festivals

As already discussed, sarees play a significant role in Diwali celebrations, reflecting the cultural heritage and diversity of India. The colours, designs, and fabrics of these sarees tell stories of tradition, spirituality, and joy. 

Explore more of such festival sarees collections with Singhania’s and continue to celebrate the festival of lights. Let us embrace the enduring charm of sarees together and keep our rich heritage alive for generations to come.

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