As Chhath Puja 2026 approaches, ghats across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and several other states are preparing for the festival celebrations. One of the most recognisable sights during the occasion is devotees dressed in traditional yellow-and-red sarees. While these colours hold a special place in festive dressing, choosing the right fabric and draping style is equally important.
Chhath Puja involves spending several hours near the water, standing in cold water, walking on wet steps and sitting on the ground during rituals. This makes lightweight cotton sarees a practical option for devotees. They are breathable, comfortable to wear and help maintain a traditional festive appearance.
Here is a simple guide to draping a red-and-yellow cotton saree comfortably for your Chhath Puja ghat visit.
How to Drape a Cotton Saree for Chhath Puja
Step 1: Choose the Right Petticoat
Start by wearing a cotton drawstring petticoat and secure it firmly around your waist. Avoid satin petticoats, as their slippery fabric can make the saree difficult to manage. You can also tie the petticoat slightly higher than usual to prevent the saree from touching the wet ground.
Step 2: Tuck the Saree and Make Pleats
Begin by tucking one end of the saree into the petticoat from the right side. Create five to six neat pleats and tuck them securely. Since cotton fabric can loosen easily, use a small safety pin on the inside to keep the pleats in place throughout the rituals.
Step 3: Adjust the Saree Length
Wrap the remaining fabric around your waist and tuck it properly. Make sure the lower border stays approximately one inch above your ankles. Keeping the saree slightly shorter will help prevent the fabric from dragging on wet surfaces and reduce the chances of slipping while walking around the ghat.
Step 4: Drape the Pallu Comfortably
For a more convenient draping style, bring the pallu from your right waist, take it over your right shoulder and allow it to fall towards the front. This arrangement offers a comfortable alternative to the traditional style of carrying the pallu over the left shoulder and letting it fall behind.
Important Saree Styling Tips for Ghat Visits
Apart from choosing the right draping technique, a few simple adjustments can make your Chhath Puja outfit more manageable.
- Choose flat juttis and keep the saree length short to make walking easier.
- While sitting, move the pleats towards one side instead of keeping them in front. This helps prevent them from getting crushed.
- Carry a small cotton gamchha in a matching colour as an alternative pallu.
- If you plan to take a dip in the river, carry an extra plain cotton saree or a quick-dry petticoat, along with a dry blouse for changing.
Why Yellow-and-Red Cotton Sarees Are Perfect for Chhath Puja
The combination of yellow and red remains a popular choice for traditional Chhath Puja dressing. These colours complement the festive atmosphere, while cotton fabric offers the comfort needed during long hours of rituals.
Lightweight, breathable and easy to manage, a cotton saree can help devotees maintain a traditional appearance without compromising on comfort.
With the right fabric, secure pleats and a practical draping style, you can enjoy your Chhath Puja ghat visit while keeping your festive look graceful and comfortable.