Silk sarees in India exemplify the expertise and talent of our artisans and weavers. One of these silk sarees happens to be the Kanjivaram Sarees The Kanjivaram saree or the Kanchipuram silk saree is famous all across the globe for its colour, motifs and the time and energy that goes into weaving even one of them. The history and mythology associated with the Kanjivaram Sarees are simply astounding. The Kanjivaram silk saree is known to be worn by the gods and goddesses in the Hindu religion. It is said that the Sage Markanda wove these sarees for the gods and goddesses using fibre from the Lotus plant. Many Kanjivaram silk saree weavers find themselves to be the descendants of this mythological figure. Under the Chola dynasty, the Kanjivaram silk sarees flourished and found a place on the global map. While the Kanjivaram silk sarees continue to flourish even today, certain myths are associated with this beautiful heirloom piece.
Let's explore some of them and even perhaps invest in one of these gorgeous sarees:
1. Kanjivaram silk sarees are only meant for traditional occasions :-
This is one of the most common myths we have seen about the Kanjivaram silk saree. The Kanjivaram Silk Sarees, however, is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing available. While we can always traditionally wear the Kanjivaram silk saree, we can also pair it up with a nice designer blouse and adorn it for events like cocktail parties and other evening occasions, which require us to wear more muted colours. Kanjivaram silk sarees made in tissue or a champagne colour are often quite elegant and fit themselves to various indo- western-style events.
2. Kanjivaram silk sarees are heavy and difficult to drape :-
This is not true. Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are quite easy to carry; it depends on one saree to the other. We also have Kanjivaram tissue sarees, which are lightweight and breezy to wear and carry. We can also wear a lighter weave, perhaps a Kanjivaram sari which does not have too many motifs. There are always options available, as the Kanjivaram silk saree is a whole spectrum of sarees which go from light and airy to heavy and luxurious. However, a Kanjivaram silk saree will always retain its luxurious feel whatever the price.
3. Kanchipuram silk sarees can be tacky :-
This is not true at all. Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are one of the most classic pieces of clothing. These sarees never go out of style, and one always looks elegant whilst wearing them. A Kanjivaram silk saree is one of those pieces which never goes out of style. Bollywood actress Rekha has been adorning Kanjivaram silk sarees since the start of her career and still wears them to this day. She is one of the most beautiful actresses in the industry, and her style is simply unmatched, all thanks to the Kanjivaram silk saree.
4. Kanjivaram silk sarees are expensive :-
This myth is partly true. However, kanjivaram silk sarees or available at various price points. These price points range from a few thousand to many lakhs. One needs to find a budget that suits them, and they will for sure find a Kanjivaram silk saree that is made just for them. Kanjivaram, therefore, includes people of different social classes because there is one for everyone. However, if you like a Kanjivaram Sarees that is expensive, understand that it will never go out of fashion, and you can wear it numerous times. A Kanjivaram saree can also be passed down to the next generation, and therefore it is actually not an expenditure but an investment.
5. Kanjivaram silk sarees get damaged easily :-
This myth totally depends on the way you keep your Kanjivaram silk sarees. A Kanjivaram silk is actually quite resistant and can survive many generations. However, you must take proper care of this saree and make sure that you are keeping it wrapped in a muslin cloth and in a cupboard or a trunk covered with neem leaves. Don't surround the saree with naphthalene balls, and air it out from time to time. You must also open up the saree while you are airing it. Never stack too many sarees over and under a Kanjivaram silk saree. Always go to a professional dry cleaner when it comes to getting the sari cleaned.
6. Kanjivaram silk sarees are not easily available :-
That's not true at all. WeaverStory has an amazing online collection of Kanjivaram silk sarees which can make your hearts melt. Each of our sarees is created with lots of love, creativity and expertise. With a few clicks, you can purchase your very own Kanjivaram silk saree.
7. Kanjivaram silk sarees have real gold and silver in them :-
Some Kanjivaram Silk Sarees do have real gold and silver Zari weaved into them. However, that is not true for all Kanjivaram silk sarees, you can definitely find yourself some pieces which don't have real gold or silver in them, and they will fall into your desired budget as well
The myths associated with the Kanjivaram Silk Sarees may have stopped you from purchasing one; we only hope that the facts we have stated above have helped you clear these doubts, and now you are well on your way towards purchasing a beautiful and gorgeous piece for yourself. At WeaverStory , we understand the precision, time, energy and expertise that goes into creating the perfect Kanjivaram silk saree. Kanjivaram silk saree is truly a beautiful blend of focus, willpower and creativity. We only hope that we are able to succeed in promoting this art form to the next generation and play a small role in immortalizing the Kanjivaram saree.
Author - Niti Desai