Kanchipuram – a rich origin from the silk city is the first name that comes to our minds when we talk about silk sarees. These gems, owned by our mothers, have been created by the master weavers that reside in Kanchipuram. As per the legends, the weavers of Kanchipuram started this tradition around 400 years back and are descendants of the weaver of God – Sage Markhanda.
This blog talks about the silk heritage of India and why every woman should own at least one of the beautiful Kanchipuram handloom silk sarees.
What Should You consider when buying Handloom Kanchipuram Saree?
Various factors distinguish a pure Kanchipuram from its imitations.
The Purity of the Zari
Traditionally, zari is made from pure silver and gold, but today, many imitations at cheaper prices are available. To identify whether the zari is pure or not, scratch it gently. A pure zari will give a reddish saree look. The best way to ensure you have a pure zari is to ask the store where they are buying it from.
The variety of the silk
Pure Kanchipuram handloom silk sarees have a luxurious and lustrous finish. If the saree is purely woven from silk, its shine and shimmers will reflect natural light. But if it is crafted with a blend of nylon or polyester, the lustre and appearance will dull over time.
The weave used
A Kanchipuram’s signature mark is hidden in its weaving technique. Each saree is handcrafted by experts through time-consuming techniques. The kind of weave involved in creating one masterpiece helps in realising the effort of weavers. Whether the Kanchipuram saree is designed with brocade tapestry, single weave, double weave, or ikat helps you understand its worth. One distinct factor of the Kanchipuram weave is its Korvai technique. This interlocking method of weaving helps secure the pallu with the body of the saree and presents a beautiful contrast on the same.
The weaving community you buy it from
Kanchipuram saree weavers are originally from Tamil Nadu, but today, their essence has spread throughout the country. Some people weave beautiful bandhani Kanchipuram, whereas some give you a range of plain silk sarees with gold borders, temple borders, and floral weaving. There is a range of options available in every weaving community.
The colour
Traditional Kanchipuram sarees are known for their contrasting colours between the border, pallu, and silhouette. The colourful folds and pleats look vibrant, even on a solid shade of Kanchipuram. The original silk saree’s colour will not only remain intact but also improve with time. Many colourful Kanchipuram saree looks are available for silk lovers.
Generally, the saree body’s colour and design are contrasting the body. They are woven separately and then interlocked to the body so that even if there’s a tear on the saree, the border stays intact. Traditional Kanchipuram colours, such as maroon, red, green, orange, yellow, and blue, are still woven, and they hold great importance, especially for South Indian brides.
The print and pattern
The weaving technique is so strong that there’s never a compromise with the border or pallu. To enhance the beauty of Kanchipuram handloom sarees, myriads of patterns and prints are available. Traditional motifs inspired by temples, monuments, sculptures, foliage, and mythological characters will amaze you. Starting from handwoven to digital prints, kalamkari, jaal, checks and stripes, and brocade with real gold zari border are available in the sarees.
Today weavers have stepped into the world of creativity using their weaving style. They have started to amalgamate two crafts into one to bring uniqueness and freshness into their traditional Kanchipuram. You can find a kanchipattu body, an ikat body with kanchipattu borders, hand-painted silk bodies, and more.
Some Kanchipuram sarees have beautiful intricate motifs that are not simply for decoration. They hold a symbolic meaning and aesthetic appeal and are manifested on the sarees as buttas, flower leaves, temple carvings, birds, and animals.
Price!
The authentic Kanchipuram handloom silk sarees have a silk tag specially provided by the government. Their price is higher than the imitations. This is because endless effort and care are put into weaving a single Kanchipuram.
Why is the Kanchipuram saree considered a prized possession?
Before we dive into the beauty, let’s talk about Kanchipuram heritage and why it is a rich culture that we see today.
Kanchipuram was ruled by a king during the Chanakya dynasty, and at that time, the silk trade was initiated. The weaving communities of Andhra Pradesh shifted to Kanchipuram, and the silk industry began with full force. Today, the Kanchipuram industry has created various job opportunities for the people in the small town. Their sarees are appreciated for their traditional designs, gold borders, and dense fabrics.
Woven from pure mulberry silk thread, these handloom silk sarees originate from the south, but their zari is imported from Gujrat. Creating Kanchipuram sarees is a labour-intensive process and takes about 10 to 15 days and three shuttles for weaving one of these beauties.Kanchipuram handloom sarees originated in a small district of Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram. Today, they dominate the south Indian world and are one of the dream drapes of every south Indian bride. The lustre and longevity of Kanchipuram are what everyone admires.
Looking for the Perfect Kanchipuram Saree?
Kankatala has a loyal connection to the weavers of Kanchipuram. We believe in providing only authentic Kanchipuram sarees to our customers. Be it weddings, auspicious occasions, or celebrations, Kankatala introduces you to a world of original Kanjivaram handloom silk saree collections, modern and traditional. Come and talk to us as we guide you through our latest collection of pure and elegant Kanchipuram sarees.
