Saree world is inexplicably vast and diverse. Each fabric narrates its own story. One such traditional fabric is Ojariya, a Rajasthani textile. Quite popular among the Rajasthani Marwadi community, this fabric is a precious weave, and has a deep cultural significance. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of ojariya.
What is Ojariya Fabric?
Ojariya fabric is a very delicate traditional handwoven textile that comes from Rajasthan. It has been a part of the Marwadi heritage for centuries. The ojariya fabric has very lightweight texture and is quite delicate. The colourful tie-dye patterns, and intricate hand embroidery indistinct to the region speaks volumes about the region’s heritage. It is made from pure viscose, cotton, and other premium threads. It is often used in traditional Rajasthani and Marwadi clothing. The unique hand-embroidery and the gota patti work sets the ojariya sarees and odhanis apart.
Cultural Significance
Talking of ojariya sarees and odhanis, they are an important part of the Rajasthani Marwadi culture. No pooja and auspicious ritual is complete without these odhanis. From pooja, weddings to karwachauth celebrations, women adorn this cultural piece proudly.
In the Marwadi community only married women wear these odhanis. They specifically showcase red, yellow and green colours where each colour holds significance. The ojariya pilia chunri is said to be worn only by women who have children whereas red and green chunris can be flaunted by every married woman. Associated with colours of marital bliss and deep rooted traditions this beautiful handcrafted piece of ethnicity is a marvel as vibrant as the Rajasthani culture.
Unique Features
1. Intricate Designs
Ojariya fabric often showcases detailed patterns such as Gota Patti, Resham, Kutdana, and Bel-Butti work.
2. Bandhani tie-Dye Designs
The sarees and odhnas feature traditional Bandhani (Bandhej) designs, tie and dye work, adding to its cultural richness.
Types of Ojariya Sarees And Odhanis
Pure ojariya sarees and odhanis can be broadly classified on the basis of the work and embellishments they showcase. These are of two types:
The Kachcha Kaam
This type of ojariya sarees and odhnis showcase intricate hand-embroidery and gota patti work. Where this one looks absolutely stunning, it is quite delicate. Each and every thread of the embroidery is very sensitive and requires great care and soft handling.
the Pakka Kaam
Well, this one too is a beautiful piece. Pure ojariya has machine work and embroidery. The threads in this one are stiff. Though the fabric is delicate, the embroidery isn’t sensitive, so this one can bear a little rough handling. You can very easily differentiate between a kachcha kaam and pakka kaam odhni/ saree.
Which One To go For?
Totally depends on your preference and style. If you are an admirer of intricate handwork, go for Kachcha kaam as pakka work lacks the charm of hand work. But, if you are a little rough at handling or you need to work and manage tasks wearing this beauty, go for the pakka work as your kachcha kaam beauty might get ruined.
Pro Tip: The pre-draped and pre-stitched odhanis serve as a great time-saver. Running late? Go for these. They are also very comfortable and manageable.
How is Ojariya Fabric Made?
This beautiful rajasthani fabric is primarily made by hand-weaving a fine cotton or silk fabric, often with intricate “bandhani” (tie-dye) patterns created by tying small knots across the fabric before dyeing, resulting in the distinctive dot-like design characteristic of Marwadi textiles. Skilled artisans of Rajasthan toil day and night to create this wonderful piece.
Colour variations: Deep green, red and yellow are the primary colours used as they hold specific significance in the Rajasthani culture.
Uses of Ojariya Fabric
- This fabric is used to make sarees, chunris, and odhnas.
- The sarees, chunris and odhnas are vibrant and heavy and are often worn for traditional festivals, weddings, and religious rituals.
Styling Tips for Ojariya Sarees & Odhanis
- Ojariya odhanis look best when draped with a kurti and skirt like a rajputi poshak. But if you love experimenting you can go for other drape styles too.
- Traditional Rajasthani jewellery is the best fit for an authentic Marwadi look. Try a borla, nath and rajasthani lac choodas or bangles. A beautiful necklace and you’ll rock like a true Marwari beauty.
- Do not forget a bindi on your forehead.
- For the hairstyle, if you’re wearing the odhna on your head, go for a sleek bun, it will help keep the odhna in place and enhance your overall look. A soft braid also goes well. For a saree, choose loose waves, bun or braid.
- For the handbag, go for a jaipuri potli.
- Traditional juttis or kolhapuris to finish and you’re good to go.
Care tips
Handle your sarees and odhanis with utmost care. Here are some tips:
- If you own kachcha work ojariyas, always dry-clean. Your odhani might bleed colours as it uses natural dyes. Also, handwashing might ruin the zari and gota patti work.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it might fade the colours.
- Store in a muslin cloth to protect from moisture damage.
- Iron at a very low temperature.
- If stained, always go for professional cleaning.
- Do not spray fragrances and perfumes on the fabric. It will ruin the fabric.
Where to Buy an Authentic Piece?
Ojariya sarees and odhanis are available in traditional handloom stores across Rajasthan. Many online platforms also offer them. Always check for authenticity certificate before purchasing.
Flaunt The Marwadi Colours In style
All clad in the beautiful ojariya, sporting the royal marwari odhna and sarees, we are sure, you’ll slay in your true Rajasthani Marwari avatar. Own a piece of this beautiful heritage and fill your wardrobe with the brightest cultural hues.
