Kanjivaram - the goddess of silks.

Kanjivaram - the goddess of silks.

Demystifying the Kanjivaram Motifs
Indulge in the exquisite weave, steeped in the oldest traditions of the land. Each pattern here has borrowed history from the abundance around. The flora, the fauna and the grand temples of Kanchipuram.

 

MANGO

Here, we are bringing you the story of the celebrated motif - The Mango / Mangaai through our special series.

The fruit is associated with auspiciousness, sweet beginnings and fertility. In South-India, the mango is an important symbol that is a part of sacred offerings to the god. You will be astounded by this beautiful motif that has effortlessly become a major part of the Kanjivarams. 

Rudraksha

The word is coined from two different words 'Rudra' meaning Shiva and 'Aksh' meaning Tears. The most fabled story is that when Lord Shiva woke up from his thousand years penance, his heart was filled with sadness, looking at the state of the world. He cried a thousand tears and each tear magically transformed into a 'Rudraksha'. 

This sacred tree has lent itself onto the canvases of various weaves. You will be thrilled to find its significance and beauty infused into the weaves of Kanjivaram by the artisans who use this motif on vintage design palette. 

Yali 

The mythical creature that is a part horse and a part elephant signifies power and safety. You will find Yalis outside temples guarding the passageways. Their fierce stupor is believed to keep the evil spirits away. 

Weavers have incorporated Yalis into the fold of the Kanjivarams, where they act as a protector of the person. 

 Annam

 A mythical bird that is believed to be Goddess Saraswathi's Vahanam. This Swan is synonymous with elegance and austerity. According to a fable story, the Swan had magical properties to separate water from milk. A motif of Annam adds purity and symbolically represents her stature, as a consort for the beautiful goddess.