Radhikaraje Gaekwad brings Maharashtrian heritage to life in a rust-hued paithani

Radhikaraje Gaekwad celebrates Ganeshotsav in a handwoven Paithani that blends seven natural hues, intricate motifs and the rich textile heritage of Maharashtra

Radhikaraje Gaekwad marks Ganeshotsav in a handwoven Paithani crafted in natural dyes, silk and traditional motifs

Radhikaraje Gaekwad’s five-and-a-half-month Paithani for Ganeshotsav pairs natural dyes and handwoven silk

Updated on:

16 Sep 2026, 8:58 am

2 min read

An attire woven with five-and-a-half months of dedication surely deserves more than just a passing glance. The Maharani of erstwhile princely state of Baroda, Radhikaraje Gaekwad, has decided to wear the kind of attire for Ganeshotsav. It is a handwoven silk paithani by label Arka, which combines natural dyeing, traditional motifs, and heritage of Maharashtra textiles.

Radhikaraje Gaekwad’s Ganeshotsav saree portrays the essence of Paithan’s royal courts

The saree is crafted out of mulberry silk and is dyed with natural colours in rust orange. There are seven different colours on this saree, and it gives an additional level of beauty to the saree without compromising on its traditional aspect. Another additional feature in this saree is the tissue tawa pallu. This pallu has motifs of five-petal flowers as well as muniya birds in green with a little red on the beak.

Muniya parrots, floral details and indigo borders bring this Paithani to life.

Five and a half months on the loom, seven natural hues, one exquisite Paithani

The festive selection made by Radhikaraje Gaekwad also blends in well with a collection that is known for its rare and historical fabrics, since her collection contains fabrics dating back over a century. This fabric has been named after the old town of Paithan, located close to Aurangabad, where it originated in the royal courts. Its early productions consisted of silk from China mixed with zari made in the local area.

A closer look at the craft behind one of Maharashtra’s most treasured weaves

The tissue tawa pallu steals the spotlight with florals and muniya birds

The saree worn by Radhikaraje Gaekwad also incorporates the imagery that has ensured the identification of Paithani through time. Peacock, parrot and lotus continue to figure prominently in their design vocabulary. Hans, Ashraffi, and Asawalli designs gained popularity during the Peshwa period. The pallu is traditionally linked with the muniya design, as well as Panja, ladder-like Barwa and Mor designs.

Silk, zari and centuries of artistry come together in a timeless Paithani

The Paithani’s signature motifs tell a story of Maharashtra’s weaving heritage

The Paithani holds a unique position in Maharashtra for weddings and other auspicious occasions. The impeccable finish of this silk is what makes it special, as there is nothing left hanging at the end.

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