Deepika Padukone spotlights the traditional gharchola sari with her Rimple & Harpreet offering

The design originates from the Khambat region of Gujarat

Deepika Padukone took to her Instagram post to share a series of pictures from Jamnagar. It’s been hard to miss all the buzz around Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding festivities filling up our social media feeds, featuring a star-studded gala. Among the standout events was the ‘Heritage India’ themed night, which showcased a plethora of intricate cultural fashion pieces. Guests paid homage to the country’s rich diversity through their attire. Padukone stood out in a striking red gharchola sari from Rimple & Harpreet, highlighting its craftsmanship.

Originating from the Khambat region of Gujarat, gharcholas hold a deep-rooted significance in Gujarati wedding customs. The ritual revolves around the bride, where the mother-in-law presents this piece as a heartfelt symbol of welcoming the bride into her new family. Padukone’s number was a deep red shade from the designer’s ‘The Rose and The Nightingale’ collection.

The sari featured handloom benarsi zari weave with Bhandej pattern, meticulously crafted by artisans in the Kutch province’s specialised craft cluster. Furthermore, the sari was embellished with a fusion of embroidery techniques such as kasab-dori, marodi, dabka, naqshi, resham, sequins, and pearls. The pallu featured motifs inspired by 17th-century Mughal artwork, while her blouse mirrored similar embroidery from the sari.

Instagram/@deepikapadukone

Deepika Padukone’s accessories for the ensemble included diamond-studded earrings and a necklace. Her hair was styled in a sleek bun, accentuated with a malli poo tied around it. Gharcholas, typically made from silk or gaji silk, are known for their exquisite sheen and durability. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja recently wore her mother’s 35-year-old gharchola, emphasising the cultural influence of these traditional pieces.