India may no longer have reigning monarchs, but royal families continue to preserve their heritage and grace the public eye with timeless elegance. Among them, the Gaekwad family of Baroda stands out, with its queen, Maharani Radhikaraje, celebrated not only for her beauty but also for her impeccable style.
This year, she has been named one of the best-dressed celebrities by Vogue, and her look in a 100-year-old saree has left admirers in awe. The queen, who resides in the world-famous Laxmi Vilas Palace, showcased her regal charm, proving once again why she is considered India’s most beautiful queen by Forbes.
A Timeless Saree with Royal Heritage
Maharani Radhikaraje’s stunning saree, over a century old, was crafted from fine cotton and adorned with real gold zari. Despite its age, the saree looked remarkably new, a testament to the durability and artistry of traditional Indian handloom weaving. On her Instagram, the Maharani revealed that the saree has been impeccably maintained and is still in wearable condition.
This exquisite saree once belonged to Maharani Chimnabai II, as seen in portraits by renowned artist Raja Ravi Varma. When Maharani Radhikaraje donned it, she brought the royal ensemble back to life, effortlessly blending historical grandeur with contemporary elegance.
Intricate Design and Craftsmanship
The black cotton saree is highlighted with a gold zari border and a broader pallu, draped gracefully over her shoulder. The gold threadwork exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship of Indian artisans and reflects the opulence of India’s royal legacy.
Maharani Radhikaraje completed her look with a matching kundan necklace, earrings, green bangles, and anklets, along with a traditional red bindi and neatly styled hair, enhancing her regal appearance.
The Art of Gold Zari
Traditionally, zari involved hammering gold into thin sheets, twisting it into fine threads, and weaving it into fabric. This technique created the distinct shimmer that has made royal sarees timeless treasures.
Preserving a Century-Old Treasure
Maintaining a saree for 100 years requires careful preservation. Royal families wrap their heirlooms in muslin, protect them from sunlight and moisture, and use neem leaves to prevent damage from insects. Instead of folding, zari sarees are rolled to avoid creases, ensuring that each generation can wear them as elegantly as the previous one.
With her royal poise and this historic saree, Maharani Radhikaraje has once again captured hearts, embodying the perfect harmony of heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary glamour.