Weave
Maheshwari
From Madhya Pradesh
Reversible silk-cotton sarees from Maheshwar on the banks of the Narmada — known for striped pallus, fine borders, and the patronage of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar.
Maheshwari sarees take their name — and their patronage — from the temple town of Maheshwar, where in the late 18th century the Holkar queen Rani Ahilyabai personally commissioned the first designs for the royal household and visiting dignitaries.
What sets Maheshwari apart
The defining feature is the pallu: five distinct stripes alternating in colour. Borders are narrow and reversible — Maheshwaris can be worn either side up — and the body usually carries small checks, stripes, or self-tone butis.