Specialty of Kanchipuram SareeImage Credit source: nmacc.india
Saree is considered the first choice of every woman in Indian attire. With time, fashion changed and the design and draping style of saree also changed. However, even today, when it comes to getting a rich and royal look, handloom sarees are taken only on special occasions even though their price is very high. Different handloom sarees have their own specialty. One of these sarees is Kanchipuram saree, the price of which starts from several thousand to lakhs. Many big celebrities are also often seen in Kanchipuram saree. After all, why do these sarees cost so much? Let us know the answers to all the questions regarding this.
Kanchipuram sarees are known for their special texture, pattern and shine. The shine of these sarees made in South India is not only in the country but all over the world. Hardly any woman does not like this saree after wearing it. So let us see why these sarees are so special and why their price goes up to lakhs.
Kanjeevaram or Kanchipuram sarees
Kanchipuram sarees, which are hand-made in Kanchipuram, located in the state of Tamil Nadu in South India, are also known as Kanjeevaram sarees. These sarees are known for their intricate designs as well as rich textures and vibrant colors. They have a very old history. Mythology says that sage Markanda wove a silk saree for Lord Vishnu, which was made of pure gold and silk. This saree was so exquisite that it was believed to stand the test of time and became a symbol of wealth and prosperity in South India.
History is related to Pallava dynasty
The history of Kanchipuram sarees is very old and rich. Kanchipuram sarees are believed to have started being made in the 7th century during the reign of the Pallava dynasty, as they were supportive of promoting and patronizing arts and crafts. With time, the city of Kanchipuram became famous for its special Kanjeevaram or Kanchipuram sarees.
Sarees are woven using this technique
Kanchipuram sarees are woven on handlooms using a technique called ‘pit loom’, in which paddles and pulleys are used to create intricate patterns. In this technique, a part of the loom is placed in a pit in the ground and the weaver controls the weave of the thread by pedaling with his feet and moving the harness up and down. The quality of the cloth woven in this way is very good. Only very skilled artisans can weave these sarees and that is why people do this work from generation to generation.
Weaving is done from real silk
In the traditional way, Kanchipuram or Kanjeevaram sarees are woven from good quality genuine silk. There is a complete process for preparing silk. The silk used in these sarees is first extracted from the insect (cocoon) and then things like boiling it, unwinding the threads and dyeing it are involved. Synthetic colors are not used to color silk, rather they are taken from plants, flowers or other natural sources.
Intricate patterns are made
Kanchipuram sarees have quite intricate patterns like temple motifs, architecturally inspired patterns, peacocks, birds, yalis (creatures), flowers, battis, checks, stripes etc. Often the patterns made in it are inspired by the temples of South India or mythological stories. These designs are made without printing, because the threads have to be woven, so the question of printing does not arise. Despite this, the design is clearly visible from both front and back sides. The pallus of these sarees are specially made, which sometimes also have motifs from epics.
These are the reasons behind it becoming expensive
Gold and silver zari is also used to make these sarees, which gives a beautiful shine to the saree and silk makes it soft. However, fake zari will look much smoother and more shiny. The reason behind it being expensive is that the weaving patterns are very complex and real silk is used. Saree is woven by hand and a lot of hard work and time goes into making it.