New Delhi: Saree, the attire with a history of around 1,000 years, not only reflects beauty and grace but also tells a story of culture and tradition.
It’s fascinating that every Indian region and state has its own wrapping styles, designs, and fabrics. West Bengal also has its own draping style of saree, known as the Aatpoure style, that reflects elegance, simplicity, and dramatic flair. If you are non-Bengali, most probably you may have seen Bollywood actresses wearing the white saree with red border in this style in movies with Durga Puja as a backdrop.
As Durga Puja is approaching, wearing a saree in Aatpoure style will add more charm and authenticity to the celebration for a change if you stay outside West Bengal. The Bengali type of drape features broad pleats, a longer pallu, and an over-the-shoulder hanging loop. While pandal hopping, stand apart from the crowd. So, here is a step-by-step guide on how to wear a saree in a Bengali style.
Wear a saree in Bengali style: Step-by-step guide
Step 1: Prepare the base
First, put on your blouse and a closely fitting petticoat, fastened at the waist. The Bengali wrap depends on the saree being held in place successfully. So, ensure that your foundation is tight.
Step 2: Tuck the saree
Take the plain end of the saree, and fold it into your right waist. Then put it between the petticoat. Wrap it around your waist once, so that the lower edge just touches the floor.
Step 3: Create the front pleat
Rather than the multiple delicate pleats, the Bengali style has only one large box pleat at the front. Next, remove the saree on your right and fold it into a large pleat, tuck it neatly into the centre of your front waist.
Step 4: Drape the first pallu
Take the pallu end of the saree and bring it from your left side over your left shoulder. Let it hang below your ankle to create a classical long pallu style. Stick it down at the shoulder.
Step 5: Make up the signature loop
Hold the remaining pallu fabric that is hanging behind you and lift it under your right arm, swinging it back so that it falls across your right shoulder. This gives the two-pallu effect that highlights the Bengali drape.
Step 6: Secure and style
Use safety pins to keep the pleats and pallu in place. Traditionally, Bengali women tuck a key ring into the edge of the pallu on the right shoulder. It’s a cultural touch, optional for you.
Learning new things brings freshness and variety to your appearance. So, ace your traditional look during the Durga Puja 2026 celebration in Aatpoure style.
