Jul 18, 2025

How to Style an Ajrakh Saree for Durga Puja and Look Effortlessly Graceful

Durga Puja is not just a festival; it's a grand spectacle of culture, devotion, and emotion that sweeps across the country, especially in Bengal. It’s a time for joyous reunions, delicious food, and of course, dressing up in your finest traditional attire. While the quintessential red-and-white saree holds a special place, this year, why not embrace a different kind of elegance? Enter the Ajrakh saree - a masterpiece of heritage craftsmanship that tells a story in every thread.

Wearing an Ajrakh saree during this festive season is a beautiful way to honour an ancient art form while showcasing its earthy charm and intricate block-printed beauty. Its deep, natural colours and geometric patterns resonate with the divine energy of the festival.

Why Choose an Ajrakh saree for Durga Puja?

Ajrakh is a perfect choice for this auspicious occasion. Ajrakh is a traditional block-printing technique from Gujarat and Sindh, involving a meticulous 16-step process of washing, dyeing, printing, and drying. The name 'Ajrakh' is believed to be derived from 'Azrak,' meaning 'blue' in Arabic, as indigo is a key dye used.

The magic of Ajrakh lies in its:

Earthy and Divine Colour Palette: The classic Ajrakh colours—deep crimson red, indigo blue, earthy maroon, and rich black—are not just beautiful; they are symbolic. Red represents Shakti and devotion, while the deep blues and blacks mirror the vastness of the cosmos. These colours align perfectly with the divine and powerful aura of Maa Durga.
Unique Aesthetic: Amidst a sea of Banarasis and Jamdanis, an Ajrakh saree offers a refreshingly unique yet deeply traditional look. Its geometric and celestial motifs are sophisticated and artistic, making you a connoisseur of heritage textiles.
Comfort and Versatility: Available in breathable cottons and luxurious silks, Ajrakh sarees can be styled for any part of the Durga Puja festivities, from daytime rituals to evening soirees.

Choose the Right Fabric: Cotton vs. Silk Ajrakh saree

For a festival as dynamic as Durga Puja, where you might be on your feet for hours, comfort is non-negotiable. The fabric of your saree is the foundation of your entire look and feel.

For Daytime Festivities: The Breathable Cotton Ajrakh

The days of Durga Puja, from Saptami to Dashami, are filled with activities like pandal hopping, attending the morning anjali, and participating in the community bhog. For these occasions, a cotton Ajrakh saree is your best friend.

Breathability: Pure cotton, especially soft Mulmul cotton, is incredibly breathable and light, keeping you cool and comfortable even in the warm October sun and crowded pandals.
Easy to Manage: Cotton sarees are easier to drape and manage. They hold pleats well and don't slip, allowing you to move around freely without constant adjustments.
Rustic Charm: The print on a cotton base has a distinct matte, earthy finish that looks incredibly chic and grounded.

For Evening Elegance: The Luxurious Silk Ajrakh

As evening descends, bringing with it the mesmerising Shondha Aaroti (evening prayer), cultural performances, and family dinners, you might want to switch to something more opulent. An Ajrakh silk saree adds a touch of luxe and sheen without compromising on traditional charm.

Modal Silk: This is the most popular choice for silk Ajrakh sarees. Modal silk, a bio-fabric made from cellulose, has a beautiful drape, a subtle lustre, and feels incredibly soft against the skin. It’s lightweight and drapes like a dream, making it easy to carry for long hours.
Gajji Silk: For a more traditional and richer feel, a Gajji silk Ajrakh saree is an excellent option. It has a satin-like finish and vibrant colour payoff, perfect for making a grand statement during the Ashtami or Navami night celebrations.

The Perfect Colour Palette and Print Selection

Durga Puja vibes call for vibrant, traditional tones. Ajrakh sarees offer a sophisticated palette that is both festive and elegant.

Colours to Embrace: Look for sarees in crimson red, deep indigo blue, rustic maroon, mustard yellow, or forest green. A classic black Ajrakh saree with red and white motifs is another stunning choice that offers a powerful and dramatic look.
Prints that Pop: Ajrakh is known for its intricate motifs. Classic patterns featuring geometric shapes, floral butis, or repetitive star prints work beautifully. To truly stand out, choose a saree where the border and pallu have a contrasting colour or a denser pattern. This detail will draw the eye and add a layer of sophistication to your drape.

Draping Styles for Effortless Grace and Comfort

While the traditional Bengali Aatpoure drape is iconic, it can feel a bit elaborate for some, especially with a printed saree where you want the design to shine. Here are some draping styles that complement an Ajrakh saree wonderfully.

The Classic Nivi Drape: This is the most common and versatile style. Focus on creating sharp, neat pleats at the waist and tucking them securely. Let the pallu fall gracefully over your left shoulder. You can either pleat the pallu neatly for a formal look or leave it open to showcase the beautiful Ajrakh print.
The Gujarati (Seedha Pallu) Style: This is perhaps the best way to drape an Ajrakh saree. The pallu is brought from the back to the front over the right shoulder, allowing the intricate design of the pallu to be displayed in its full glory. It's a very elegant and practical style that keeps your hands free for rituals and enjoying the festival.
The Modern Neck Drape: For a contemporary and chic look, you can drape the pallu around your neck like a scarf. This works well with lighter fabrics like modal silk and is perfect for a casual evening gathering.

Selecting the Perfect Blouse

The right blouse can elevate your Ajrakh saree from beautiful to breathtaking.

Solid Colours are Your Best Bet: Since Ajrakh sarees feature dense prints, it’s best to pair them with a solid-coloured blouse to create a balanced look. Choose a colour from the saree's print palette. For example, pair an indigo and maroon Ajrakh saree with a solid maroon, black, or even a beige raw silk blouse.
Play with Necklines and Sleeves: A boat neck or a high-neck blouse lends an air of sophistication and looks incredibly elegant. For a more traditional touch, elbow-length sleeves are a timeless choice. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, a simple sleeveless or a collared blouse can look very stylish.
Fabric Contrast: Pair your cotton Ajrakh with a simple cotton blouse for a cohesive look. With a modal silk Ajrakh, you can experiment with fabrics like raw silk, satin, or velvet for the blouse to add a rich textural contrast.

Jewellery that Complements Without Overwhelming

Accessorising an Ajrakh saree is all about embracing its earthy, artistic vibe.

Oxidised Silver Jewellery: This is a match made in heaven. The muted, dark tones of oxidised silver perfectly complement the natural dyes of Ajrakh. Opt for a chunky silver choker or a long statement necklace, large tribal jhumkas or chandbalis, and a stack of silver bangles or a single bold kada. This combination creates a stunning bohemian-chic look.
Terracotta and Wooden Jewellery: To further enhance the earthy appeal, consider handcrafted terracotta jewellery. A painted terracotta necklace and matching earrings can add a unique and artistic touch.
Antique Gold or Temple Jewellery: If you're wearing a silk Ajrakh for an evening event and want a more regal look, opt for antique gold-toned jewellery. A simple temple necklace, matching jhumkas, and a maang tikka can look incredibly graceful.
The Bindi: Never underestimate the power of a bindi! A simple red or maroon bindi is a must. For a more dramatic look, a larger round bindi can look striking.

Hairstyle and Makeup for Festive Poise

Your hair and makeup should complete the look, balancing traditional glam with understated grace.

Timeless Hairstyles: A low bun adorned with a gajra (garland of fresh jasmine flowers) is a timeless and elegant choice. It keeps your hair neatly in place and adds a touch of traditional fragrance. A messy side braid or soft, open waves with a middle parting also blend beautifully with the relaxed elegance of an Ajrakh saree.
Fresh and Festive Makeup:

Eyes: Let your eyes do the talking. The classic Durga Puja look involves well-defined eyes with dark kajal and a sharp winged eyeliner. A wash of bronze or gold eyeshadow can add a festive shimmer.
Face: Keep the base light and dewy. A hint of rosy blush will give you a healthy, festive glow.
Lips: A bold lip in shades of deep red, maroon, or berry completes the festive look perfectly. If you prefer a more subtle approach, a nude lipstick with warm undertones will also look beautiful.

Accessories for Puja-Ready Comfort

Durga Puja involves a lot of walking. Your footwear choice should be stylish yet practical.

Comfortable Footwear: Ditch the stilettos and opt for comfortable flats. Kolhapuri sandals, embellished juttis, or low-heeled wedges are perfect choices that complement the ethnic look while being kind to your feet.
The Right Bag: Carry a small bag for your essentials. A handcrafted potli bag in silk or with embroidery, a colourful clutch, or a small jute sling bag will complete your look while keeping your hands free.

Styling an Ajrakh saree for Durga Puja is about celebrating your individuality and your love for Indian heritage. It’s a choice that reflects poise, artistic appreciation, and quiet confidence. By choosing the right fabric, drape, and accessories, you can create a look that is not only stunning but also deeply meaningful.

This festive season, let the timeless elegance of Ajrakh wrap you in its beauty. Embrace its earthy colours and intricate patterns, and move through the celebrations with an effortless grace that is truly your own. You’ll look festive, feel comfortable, and carry a piece of history with you, perfectly embodying the spirit of Durga Puja.