How to make the ‘dhoti’ part of daily wear

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Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. The humble dhoti is among the most popular traditional outfits that men as well as women wear during festivals and wedding season. But it can be part of the daily wear as well, believes content creator Rohit Bose.

Over the past few months, Bose has created a social media following by presenting different ways of wearing a dhoti, and narrating tales of traditional draping techniques and the history behind them. “This timeless attire is being reimagined and celebrated, thanks to Bollywood icons like Saif Ali Khan, Ranveer Singh and Ranbir Kapoor," says Bose. According to him, there’s no single "correct" way to wear the dhoti.

“For many, the dhoti evokes memories of their grandfathers wearing it in a traditional, region-specific way. I aim to inspire others to see the dhoti in a new light—as a dynamic, stylish, and expressive garment that transcends cultural and regional boundaries while celebrating its rich heritage," he says. During a quick chat, Bose shared tips on how to make the dhoti a part of daily wear and his thoughts on the pre-draped dhoti.

Edited excerpts: I prefer draping my dhotis because it gives me the freedom to experiment with styles and express my creativity. Dolly Jain's powerful analogy about pre-stitched sarees—"giving the sky to a girl but clipping her wings"—truly resonates with me. I feel pre-stitched dhotis can limit the garment’s full creative potential.

That said, I understand the importance of making dhotis accessible and reviving interest in this traditional attire. For many, draping can seem intimidating, and pre-stitched dhotis provide a welcoming gateway. They simplify the experience, allowing more people to embrace the dhoti comfortably.