Hailing from the town of "Kanchipuram" in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, Kanjivaram Silk, also known as Kanchipuram silk, is a type of silk sari that is made from the purest form of silk. They are considered to be some of the finest silk saris in the world and are highly prized for their beauty and craftsmanship.
Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are also known for their durability and longevity. The silk thread used in these saris is of high quality and is resistant to wear and tear. This means that the saris can be worn and treasured for many years, making them a perfect investment for any woman.
In recent years, Kanjivaram Silk Sarees have gained popularity outside of South India and are now worn and appreciated by women worldwide. They are considered to be a symbol of elegance, tradition, and craftsmanship and are highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts and collectors. The high-quality silk, intricate designs, and vibrant colors make these saris a timeless classic that will never go out of style.
One of the unique things about Kanjivaram Silk Sarees, is the process of creating them. They’re made from "Pure silk". The silkworms are carefully tended to by skilled workers, and the cocoons are hand-reeled to produce long, continuous threads of silk. Pure silk is considered to be the highest quality silk and is known for its softness, shine, and strength. It is also known for its durability, and is often used to make a wide variety of luxury items, such as clothing, bedding, and home decor. Pure silk is used extensively to make Kanjivaram Sarees. The silk thread used to make these saris is spun by hand using a spinning wheel, which is called a charkha. The thread is then dyed using natural dyes, such as turmeric, indigo, and madder, to create rich and vibrant colors. The silk thread is then woven on a handloom, using the “extra weft” technique, where the weaver inserts extra weft threads between the warp threads to create intricate designs. This process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, which makes each sari an actual work of art.
Another unique aspect of Kanjivaram Silk Saree, is the motifs and designs that are used. The saris are typically adorned with intricate zari work, which is the process of weaving gold or silver thread into the silk fabric. The designs often feature traditional motifs such as temple borders, paisleys, and floral patterns. The motifs are said to be inspired by the temple architecture of Kanchipuram, which is famous for its ornate and intricate carvings. Some of the most popular traditional motifs and patterns found on Kanchipuram silk sarees include -
- Temple border : The temple border is one of the most popular motifs found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. It features an intricate design of temple towers and gopurams, which are a common feature of South Indian temples. This motif is said to symbolize the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Peacock : The peacock is a common motif found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. It is a symbol of beauty and grace and is said to bring good luck to the wearer. The peacock motif is often created using zari thread, which adds a shimmering effect to the design.
- Paisleys : Paisleys are another popular motif found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. They are typically created using zari thread and feature a curved, teardrop-shaped design. The paisley motif is said to symbolize the flowing nature of life.
- Floral patterns : Floral patterns are also a common motif found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. They are typically created using zari thread and feature a variety of flowers, such as lotus, marigold, and jasmine. The floral patterns are said to symbolize beauty and purity.
- Animal motifs : Animal motifs such as elephants, lions, and parrots are also found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. The elephants are often depicted carrying temple towers or other religious symbols and are said to symbolize strength and wisdom. The lion is also a common motif and is said to symbolize courage, power and strength.
- Divine motifs : Divine motifs like gods, goddesses, and sacred symbols are also found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. The most popular divine motifs are Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga. These motifs are said to bring good luck and prosperity to the wearer.
In addition to these traditional motifs and patterns, Kanjivaram Silk Sarees also feature a wide range of contemporary designs, such as geometric patterns and abstract designs, which have been adapted to modern tastes while maintaining the traditional essence. They also come in different colors, from the traditional reds and golds to more modern shades like pastels and blues. This variety of designs and colors allows women to choose a Kanjivaram Silk Sarees that suits their personal style and the occasion they are wearing it for. Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are also versatile in terms of how they can be worn. They can be worn in traditional drapes such as the Nivi and the Kaccha, or they can be worn in more modern styles such as the lehenga saree or the pre-draped saree. They can also be paired with different types of blouses, from traditional silk blouses to more modern styles like off-shoulder or crop tops.
Kanchipuram silk sarees are considered a true masterpiece of art and craftsmanship and are a must-have for any saree lover. The process of creating Kanjivaram Silk Sarees is time-consuming and labor-intensive, which makes each sari a mesmerizing work of art. These saris are held in high esteem by art collectors and fashion aficionados as a representation of elegance, heritage, and craftsmanship. They are ideal for every occasion due to their versatility and can be worn in a variety of fashionable styles.
At WeaverStory , we have a wonderful selection of Kanjivaram Silk Sarees that will surely leave you spellbound!
Author - Aditi Bapna