Let the usual price of the saree be \( P \).
Since the saree was sold at a 20% reduction, Sarika paid 80% of the original price. Thus, we have the equation:
\[
0.80P = 984
\]
Now, solving for \( P \):
\[
P = \frac{984}{0.80} = 1230
\]
Thus, the usual price of the saree was \( \boxed{₹1230} \).