Kanjeevaram Silk Saree is a well-known saree in South India. It’s South India’s reply to the much famous Banarasi Saree. Its popularity is credited to the thick fabric and deep colours mixed with a tint of gold. 


This article explores the different aspects of Kanjeevaram Silk Saree, including its varieties, weaving techniques, colours, etc. 


WEAVING PROCESS

Kanjeevaram Sarees are made out of pure mulberry silk. While the silk is original to South India, the pure gold and silver zari belong to Gujarat. The silk thread that is used in the weaving process is first dipped in rice water and sun-dried to increase its thickness and stiffness. These threads are then interlocked with silver wires and woven with golden thread to give it a finish. 

What makes the process more interesting is the fact that the pallu and border of the saree are woven separately from the body of the saree and then intertwined together with accuracy and neatness. 


SPECIAL FEATURES

Owing to the contrasting colour of the pallu, and the body of the saree, the weavers weave them both separately and later join them together. The weavers form a zig-zag pattern (also known as pitni) at the junction where the body meets the pallu. A common practice that is used by weavers when weaving Kanjeevaram Silk Saree is weaving the pallu, border, and body as a separate entity and then the three are joined together with such precision that if the saree tears, the border will remain undetached. 


COLOURS

Kanjeevaram Sarees are usually available in vibrant colours with attractive designs which mainly find their inspiration from scriptures and figurines. The colour contrast between the pallu, the border of the saree, and the body of the saree also make it a desirable choice. 


MOTIFS

Since its origination, Kanjeevaram Silk Sarees are known for their design motifs that are mainly inspired by temple figurines and mythological stories. While the border of the saree comprises motifs from temples, general paintings, etc, the body is stitched with floral motifs, checks, strips, etc. 


VARIETIES

In the beginning, Kanjeevaram Silk Saree was a nine-yard weave but over the years it has been reduced to a six-yard weave for practical purposes. The original gold and silver zari is now replaced by a metal or copper zari that is more cost-effective and manages to hold on to the classic look while also reducing the cost. 


IDENTIFICATION OF A KANJEEVARAM SILK SAREE

  • The best way to identify an authentic Kanjeevaram Silk Saree is by seeing the contrast between the body of the saree and its pallu and borders. 
  • Look out for any loose thread in the saree. Zari is made of red silk thread which is then woven with a silver wire and dipped into gold. If you find the thread to be of any colour other than gold, it may be fake. 

CARE GUIDE

  • Dry cleaning is the most suggested and preferred way to maintain Kanjeevaram Silk. 

PRICE RANGE

The price of the sarees ranges according to the authenticity and quality of the fabric and thread. 


We hope this article helps you know more about Kanjeevaram Silk Sarees. We will make sure to come back soon to inform you about yet another saree. Till then, happy shopping!