The
sight of the Kanchipuram silk saree always brings a delightful expression on a
woman’s face. Kanchipuram sarees are a symbol of India’s culture and
civilization. India is known for its handwoven textile heritage, and
Kanchipuram silk is among them. Kanchipuram silk sarees are lauded for their
intricate craftsmanship and finesse. Kanchivaram silk sarees are exclusively
known for their rich gold borders, traditional designs, and dense fabric in
contrasting colours. Every motif and design of the Kanchipuram silk saree
narrates a story. Kanchipuram silk sarees have dominated the world of south
Indian saree for years now. Indeed, they are the dream saree of every South
Indian to-be-brides.
History & Evolution of Kanchipuram Silk / Kanjivaram Silk
During
the reign of the Chola dynasty in Kanchipuram, the king took the initiative in
the silk trade. And during King Krishna Devaraya's rule, weaving communities of
Andhra Pradesh, the Saligars and Devangas migrated to Kanchipuram town, and
thus, the silk industry saw new growth. These two communities exclusively
excelled at the weaving skill. Although, during the French invasion in the 17th
century, the weaving industry had a hiccup and the operation was paused. Later,
in the 18th century, the silk weaving industry was resumed and became the main
occupation for many in the town. Today, Kanchipuram silks rank the most popular
around the globe.
Making of Kanchipuram Silk / Kanchi Pattu
The
silk is obtained from the sericulture of mulberry worms, i.e. silk extracted
from domesticated silkworms that feed on mulberry tree leaves. The silk yarns
extracted from such silkworms are usually fine, soft, and of a lighter tone.
Then, the raw silk yarns are dipped into hot water and mixed with preferred
colored powders to dye the silk. Once the dyed yarns are dried thoroughly,
they are put into the rice starch natively called kanji (the excess water after
the rice is cooked) before and after weaving the saree to add stiffness. As for
the zari, pure silver threads coated with a gold color are used in the saree
weaving to enrich the appeal of the saree. The zari thread consists of 57%
silver and 0.6% gold. The body, border, and pallu of a Kanchipuram silk saree
are woven separately and then interlocked together. It is interlocked in such a
way the joining could not be identified from the front.
It
takes about 10 to 15 days to weave a single silk saree, however, it may differ
depending on the design intricacy done in the saree. The saree border color
and design are usually different from the body. The saree border and pallu are
usually weaved separately and then interlocked to the body so strongly that
even if the saree tears the border will not detach. The zari comprises 57 percent silver and 0.6 percent gold.
Design Inspiration
The
motifs showcased on the sarees are not merely decorative patterns, but beyond
that, which hold a strong aesthetic appeal and symbolic meaning. The designs
manifested on the silk saree are temple carvings, checks, stripes, buttas,
mythical creatures, birds, animals, flower leaves, etc. With the change in
trend, a lot of contemporary art also is expressed on the saree, like, the
images of the bride and groom are convoluted on the saree on an order base.
There are a variety of Kanchipuram silk sarees like simple border, temple
border, floral Kanchipuram, traditional Kanchipuram, and modern Kanchipuram.
It
is always tricky to find authentic Kanchipuram silk sarees, as there are too
many retailers and wholesalers in the market selling them. But not every store
offers you authentic ones. So, you are suggested to buy Kanchipuram sarees from
well-known stores. Samyakk, an ethnic wear retailer, showcases a varied range
of handpicked authentic Kanchipuram silk saree collections for every occasion. The
Kanchipuram silk saree at Samyakk are all silk-certified ones. Find the best
Kanchipuram silk sarees for your special occasions at our retail store in
Bangalore or at www.samyakk.com.
