“She was aesthetic, even before it was a thing”. From perfectly blending contemporary flair with traditional elegance to selecting classic jewellery pieces, she was the real epitome of ‘beauty with brain’ in her era. Sheer fabrics, which are back a classy fashion trend, were first brought to India only by her. She is none other than Rajmata of Jaipur’s royal family, aka ‘Maharani Gayatri Devi’, who truly is an enduring symbol of elegance, grace and charisma.
Maharani Gayatri Devi stands out not just for her regal stature but also for her unparalleled sense of style and aesthetics. A prominent figure in the mid-20th century, she not only redefined the role of a royal woman but also left an indelible mark on Indian fashion, blending traditional elegance with modern flair.
Cosmopolitan Upbringing
Born and brought up as a princess of Cooch Behar (West Bengal) in 1919, her early education at Glendower Preparatory School in London and later at Shantiniketan under Rabindranath Tagore’s guidance laid the foundation for her cosmopolitan outlook. This exposure to different cultures and artistic influences shaped her unique sense of aesthetics. 12 years old Gayatri Devi fell in love with 21 years old Jaipur King Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, whom she affectionately called ‘Jai’ and entered the Jaipur royal family upon her marriage with him in 1940, becoming the third Maharani consort of Jaipur. She was a skilled equestrian, a staunch advocate of women’s empowerment, a formidable politician, a fierce philanthropist and one of the most beautiful women in the world.
A Canvas of Chiffon
Ever thought about how chiffon entered Bollywood and why Bollywood is obsessed with this fabric? Well, it was Gayatri’s mother, Maharani Indira Devi, who first noticed chiffon, a synthetic fabric exuding luxury and elegance and eventually, it made its way all along from France to India, to be finally draped as saree. But it was only Gayatri’s styling and draping prowess that made chiffon saree (in soft hues of pastels and modest blouses) her signature look.
Unlike the heavily embroidered versions popular at the time, she favoured flowing, diaphanous drapes in vibrant colours, often adorned with delicate floral prints. She popularized the ‘Aanchal style,’ where the end of the saree was draped over the head, creating a regal and sophisticated look. Her choice of jewellery was equally iconic – from exquisite jadau necklaces to traditional jhumkas, each piece complemented her outfits, reflecting her impeccable taste. Devi’s simple choice was revolutionary which established her image as a ‘trendsetter’. It showcased the beauty of the saree while injecting a sense of modernity and individuality.
Beyond Borders
Devi’s fashion choices weren’t confined to sarees. She embraced Western silhouettes like tailored trousers, cocktail dresses, and even pantsuits, often adding a touch of Indian flair with embroidery, jewellery, or prints. This fusion of East and West resonated with a global audience, showcasing the versatility and beauty of Indian textiles and design.
Exquisite Collection of Jewelries
Much like her fashion, Devi’s jewellery collection embodied a blend of tradition and modernity. She possessed pieces from renowned houses like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Boucheron, each showcasing that too with the inculcation of exquisite gemstones, mainly emeralds and pearls along with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires adorned necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and tiaras, creating a dazzling display of opulence. Pearls held a special place in Devi’s heart, the reason why she owned several stunning pearl necklaces, including a famous 37-pearl strand by Cartier that fetched millions at auction.
More Than Just a Trendsetter
Devi’s fashion wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a statement of empowerment. She defied societal norms, choosing outfits that allowed her freedom of movement and expression. In that patriarchal era, she actively participated in male-dominated sports like polo and skiing, challenging the image of the docile, secluded royal woman.
Forever Endured Personality
Today, Devi continues to inspire designers and fashionistas alike. Her timeless elegance and fearless expression of individuality serve as a reminder that fashion can be a powerful tool for self-expression and cultural exchange. From Sabyasachi Mukherjee to Gautam Gupta, popular fashion designers have paid homage to her styling essence.
