Maharani Gayatri Devi (1919-2009), popularly referred to as the “Rajmata” of Jaipur remains one of the most notable Royals in India. She is remembered for her immaculate personality, elegance, mannerism, grace and incomparable fashion statement. Maharani Gayatri’s impeccable fashion choices, which perfectly aligned with her poised demeanour, set her apart as the most fashionable royal of her time. Her style statement beautifully reflected her sophisticated mannerism, values, upbringing, and her grandmother’s timeless influence. She left behind a legacy of chiffon sarees, statement jewellery and ‘minimal is beautiful’ concept.
Who Was Maharani Gayatri Devi?
She was born as Princess Gayatri Devi of Cooch Behar in 1919. Gayatri Devi entered the royal household of Jaipur upon her marriage to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II in 1940. She was the third Maharani Consort of Jaipur from 1940 to 1949.
Far-Reaching Aura
Maharani’s exquisite fashion choice also reflected the understanding of global trends influenced by her upbringing abroad. She studied in London and this helped her to blend two different traditions into one, which set her apart. Maharani Gayatri was not just known for her fashion statement, her aura was far-reaching. She was loved by people from all walks of life, who respected her and found her inspiring in many ways. The Indian masses placed their trust in her and voted her into political office numerous times.
Redefined Royal Elegance With Her Chiffon Sarees
Her chiffon sarees were a trademark of that era. Maharani Gayatri’s charm was such that even Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan was enamoured by her. Bachchan was once quoted saying that during his days as a DU student, he would sneak into the Jaipur Polo ground, where he would spot Rajmata in chiffon sarees. Her soft and pastel flowered chiffons defined her as a picture of grace and beauty.
Chiffon Saree, Pearl Necklace, Bob Hairstyle
Her wardrobe reflected tips from her mother and grandmother as well. Their influence defined Maharani Gayatri’s choice in clothing and jewellery. As a Maharani, she was expected to dress sensibly and in traditional attire. And Maharani Gayatri left no stone unturned in that. She used to don modest soft pastel coloured chiffon saree and complete her look with beautiful jewelleries. Maharani Gayatri was never laden with heavy jewellery, just a simple white pearl necklace would make her look elegant.
Apart from her sarees and jewelleries, her sleek bob hairstyle was equally loved by people.
Her Mother Indira Devi’s Influence On Her Style
Maharani’s love for Chiffon sarees was passed down from her mother, Indira Devi. She (Indira Devi) was considered the first to adapt the chiffon fabric to the traditional sari. Gayatri Devi once stated about her mother, “I learnt style from my mother; she taught me all about style; she was one of the most fashionable, most independent and most modern Maharanis yet she always insisted ‘she was ordinary.’
Another person who heavily influenced her style, was her grandmother. She was the one who told Maharani Gayatri to never wear emeralds with a green sari, as she believed it looked better with pink. She recounted this incident in her memoir ‘A Princess Remembers: The Memoirs of the Maharani of Jaipur.’ Throughout her life, while transitioning between her role as Maharani, politician and mother, she maintained her regal look. Her kholed eyes look, wavy hair, red tinted lips, and neck adorned with pearls made her look exceptionally beautiful. She was shot by photographer Cecil Beaton for Vogue as a style icon. In an interview, Maharani Gayatri stated, “I have never felt beautiful…I remember as a young girl, my mother had to literally force me into applying lipstick, physical appearance doesn’t bother me, it never has, it never will.”
Timeless Legacy
Her legacy continues to influence Indian fashion world. Several notable designers have drawn inspiration from her timeless style. Fashion designer Sabyasachi crafted five limited-edition saris his Spring/Summer 2013 collection, which were inspired by Maharani Gayatri Devi.
