Gudi Padwa Hairstyles with Extensions — Marathi New Year 2026

Gudi Padwa 2026 falls on March 30 — and this Marathi New Year celebration calls for hairstyles that honour tradition while looking absolutely gorgeous. Whether you are draping a nauvari saree, wearing a nath (traditional nose ring) or adorning your hair with fragrant gajra (jasmine flowers), the right hairstyle completes the look. Hair extensions add the volume and length that traditional Maharashtrian hairstyles demand, making every Gudi Padwa hairstyle fuller and more impressive.

These five looks range from classic to contemporary, and every one is achievable at home with clip-in extensions.

5 Gudi Padwa Hairstyles with Extensions

1. The Classic Ambada (Bun) with Gajra

The ambada is the quintessential Maharashtrian hairstyle — a voluminous low bun adorned with strings of fresh jasmine. Extensions transform this look from a simple bun into a statement hairstyle.

How to create it:

1. Clip in a volumizer extension at the crown for added body
2. Gather all hair (natural + extensions) into a low ponytail at the nape
3. Twist the ponytail into a voluminous bun — keep it slightly loose for a full, rounded shape
4. Secure with pins and a hair net if needed
5. Wrap strings of fresh gajra around the bun in concentric circles
6. Leave a few face-framing strands loose for a soft, romantic finish

Extension needed: A 3-clip volumizer or scrunchie bun for instant volume. For an extra-large ambada, add a full clip set for maximum thickness.

2. Voluminous Side Braid

A thick side braid draped over one shoulder is elegant, practical and beautifully traditional. Extensions add the thickness that makes this braid look luxurious.

How to create it:

1. Clip in a full clip set or volumizer for thickness throughout
2. Part your hair on one side and sweep everything to the opposite shoulder
3. Braid loosely — a three-strand braid is most traditional, but a fishtail looks stunning too
4. Gently pull the braid edges outward (pancaking) for a fuller, wider appearance
5. Weave thin strings of gajra through the braid or pin flowers along one side
6. Secure the end with a decorative hair tie or traditional thread

Extension needed: A clip set (7+ pieces) adds the density that makes braids look impressively thick. Clip-in streaks in a matching shade add subtle dimension.

3. The Nath-Friendly Half-Up, Half-Down

When wearing a nath (nose ring attached to the hair with a chain), you need a hairstyle that anchors the chain securely while keeping hair off the face. A half-up style is perfect.

How to create it:

1. Clip in a volumizer at the crown for lift and body
2. Take the top section of hair (from temple to temple) and gather it at the back crown
3. Secure with a decorative clip or pin that can also anchor the nath chain
4. Leave the bottom half flowing with soft waves or curls
5. Tuck a small gajra sprig into the secured section for a traditional touch
6. Position the nath chain from the nose ring to the clip in the hair

Extension needed: A volumizer for crown lift and flowing length below. Add a ponytail extension if you want extra length in the lower half.

4. The Mogra-Adorned Low Ponytail

A thick, low ponytail adorned with mogra (jasmine) is a modern take on traditional styling — elegant enough for puja but comfortable for all-day celebrations.

How to create it:

1. Clip in a full clip set for all-over thickness
2. Smooth all hair back into a low ponytail at the nape
3. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it
4. Curl the ponytail with a large-barrel curling iron for soft, bouncy waves
5. Pin mogra strands along the top of the ponytail or wrap around the base
6. Add a traditional hair pin or jewelled clip above the ponytail

Extension needed: A clip set for volume or a ponytail extension that wraps around your natural ponytail for instant dramatic length.

5. The Contemporary Open Waves

For a modern Gudi Padwa look that pairs beautifully with both nauvari sarees and contemporary outfits, voluminous open waves create a striking impression.

How to create it:

1. Clip in a full clip set for maximum volume and length
2. Create large, loose waves using a 32mm curling wand or flat iron waves
3. Curl both natural hair and extensions together for a seamless blend
4. Add a decorative maang tikka or traditional hair pin at the parting
5. Tuck a small gajra behind one ear for a traditional accent
6. Apply anti-humidity spray for hold throughout the celebration

Extension needed: A full clip set (7+ pieces) or volumizer plus streaks for dimensional volume.

Shop Festival-Ready Clip Sets →

Extension Shopping for Gudi Padwa

Plan your extension purchase at least 5-7 days before March 30 to allow time for delivery and a practice styling session:

If this is your first time buying extensions for a festival, our clip-in tutorial and colour matching guide will help you choose and apply confidently.

Traditional Hair Accessories to Complete the Look

• Gajra (jasmine flowers): The most essential Maharashtrian hair accessory. Available fresh from flower vendors or as artificial options for longer events
• Nath (nose ring with chain): The chain typically attaches to the hair — ensure your hairstyle provides a secure anchor point
• Maang tikka: A decorative piece at the hair parting, traditional for festive and bridal looks
• Jewelled hair pins: Gold or pearl pins that secure sections while adding sparkle
• Traditional rakhi thread: Woven through braids for a cultural accent

Explore our Indian wedding hairstyles guide for more traditional styling inspiration that works beautifully for Gudi Padwa celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which extensions are best for Gudi Padwa hairstyles?

For bun and updo styles, a volumizer or scrunchie extension is ideal. For braids and open hair, a full clip set provides the thickness and length needed. Ponytail extensions are perfect for sleek, traditional ponytail looks. Choose based on your planned hairstyle.

Can I keep gajra in my hair all day with extensions?

Yes — gajra stays beautifully in extension-enhanced hairstyles because the added thickness provides more surface area for pins and flowers to grip. Use bobby pins to secure the gajra strands and they will last throughout the day.

How do I match extensions to my hair colour for the festival?

Compare extension shades against your hair in natural daylight, matching your mid-lengths rather than your roots. For festival looks, an exact match is important because photographs will capture any colour difference clearly.

Can I create these looks by myself at home?

Yes — all five looks are achievable at home with practice. The bun and ponytail are the easiest. The side braid and half-up styles may be easier with a friend helping. Practice the look once before the festival day to build confidence and identify any adjustments needed.

Will my extensions hold up in warm March weather?

Human hair extensions handle warm weather well. Apply a light anti-humidity spray to prevent frizz, avoid touching the styled hair excessively, and carry bobby pins for any touch-ups needed during the celebration. Buns and braids hold better in heat than loose styles.

Do I need to visit a salon for these Gudi Padwa hairstyles?

Most of these styles can be done at home with clip-in extensions and basic styling tools. For an especially elaborate look (like a complex ambada with extensive gajra work), visiting a salon or having a friend help may give a more polished result.

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