Onam 2025: Kasavu saree-blouse designs inspired by South Indian actresses

Onam is primarily celebrated in God’s own country, Kerala, as well as in other Southern Indian states. This festival marks the harvesting of the land and is filled with gratitude, harmony, and culture. As the festival is no longer restricted to South India, many northern cities and states now celebrate it with great significance and joy. During this auspicious occasion, women usually drape the traditional ivory and gold border Kasavu sarees. Seeking inspiration from our South Indian actresses, let’s explore some ideal blouse designs that bring in the right contemporary notes.

South Indian diva Anupama Parameswaran glows in a traditional Kasavu silk saree. She chose to pair it with a contrasting blouse instead of the usual matching ivory-and-gold shade. The shoulder-length puffed sleeve blouse featured a sweetheart neckline, which looked beautiful with her traditionally styled pallu. A fresh gajra adorned the back of her neatly tied hair.
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Malayalam actress Kalyani Priyadarshan looked ethereal in a golden-hued tissue silk Kasavu saree, teaming it with a modern cream-hued spaghetti strap blouse. Picked from designer Poornima Indrajith’s collection, the blouse featured a sweetheart neckline and sleek straps, bringing a modern twist while still staying rooted in South Indian culture. She styled the look with a subtle necklace, contrasting red bangles, and side-swept wavy locks.
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Ringing in the spirit of Onam, Keerthy Suresh draped a gorgeous ivory cotton Kasavu saree with gold zari work on the pallu and patti borders. She added a hint of drama with a bright red sleeveless blouse that contrasted beautifully with the drape. Wearing subtle jewellery, minimal makeup, and a half-tie hairstyle, she exuded festive perfection from every angle.

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Adding a few tweaks to tradition, Rashmika draped a nude-coloured tissue silk saree with intricate border work. She paired it with a matching broad-strap sleeveless blouse featuring a sophisticated V-neckline and let the pallu fall gracefully on her arms. Wearing her straight hair loose with a mid-parting, she carried this look with effortless grace and poise.
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If you are looking for a statement yet elegant blouse design for your Kasavu saree, take a cue from Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s stunning ensemble. She neatly draped the saree and pinned it on her left shoulder, giving a clean view of her printed blouse. The high round-neck blouse with elbow-length sleeves featured a golden-hued polka dot print. Creating a playful yet chic look, she kept her jewellery minimal and looked absolutely iconic.
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Sai Pallavi looked absolutely stunning in a traditional kasavu saree by the beach, exuding effortless grace against the serene backdrop. The off-white and gold weave perfectly complemented her natural beauty, while the gentle sea breeze added a dreamy touch to the drape. She elevated the look with a statement maang tikka or nethi chutti and chunky jhumkas, blending Kerala’s cultural elegance with a hint of festive glamour. With her minimal makeup and radiant smile, Sai Pallavi proved once again that she can make even the simplest traditional attire look breathtakingly timeless.

'Lady Superstar' Nayanthara loves wearing the ever-so-graceful Kasavu and we love the classic drape of this beauty. She often goes sans accessories when slipping into one of these but loves to play around with fresh flowers in her hair.