What makes Kanjivaram Silk Sarees unique?

Originating from the town of "Kanchipuram" in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, Kanjivaram Silk, also known as Kanchipuram silk, is a type of silk saree made from the purest form of silk. They are considered to be some of the finest silk sarees in the world and are highly prized for their beauty and craftsmanship.

Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are also known for their durability and longevity as the silk threads used in these sarees are of high quality making it resistant to wear and tear. Thus, the sarees can be worn and treasured for many years, and then passed on as an heirloom making them a perfect investment for any woman.

Although  Kanjivaram Silk Sarees hail from South India, they have been worn and appreciated all over India and recognized globally in recent years. They exemplify elegance, tradition, and craftsmanship and are must-haves for fashion enthusiasts and collectors. The high-quality silk, intricate designs, and vibrant colours make these sarees a timeless classic that will never go out of style.

The creation process of Kanjivaram Saree involves carefully tended silkworms by skilled workers, and the cocoons are hand-reeled to produce long, continuous silk threads. The silk thread used to make Kanjivaram Sarees is spun by hand using a spinning wheel, which is called a charkha. The thread is then dyed using natural dyes, such as turmeric, indigo, and madder, to create rich and vibrant colours. The silk thread is then woven on a handloom, using the “extra weft” technique, where the weaver inserts extra weft threads between the warp threads to create intricate designs. This process is time-consuming and labour-intensive, which makes each saree an actual work of art. Pure silk is considered to be the highest quality silk and is known for its softness, shine, and strength. It is also known for its durability, and is often used to make a wide variety of luxury items, such as clothing, bedding, and home decor. 

Another unique aspect of Kanjivaram Silk Saree is the motifs and designs that are used. Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are typically adorned with intricate zari work, which is the process of weaving gold or silver thread into the silk fabric. The designs often feature traditional motifs such as temple borders, paisleys, and floral patterns. The motifs are said to be inspired by the temple architecture of Kanchipuram, which is famous for its ornate and intricate carvings. Some of the most popular traditional motifs and patterns found on Kanchipuram silk sarees include - 

• Temple border: The temple border is one of the most popular motifs found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. It features an intricate design of temple towers and gopurams, which are a common feature of South Indian temples. This motif is said to symbolise the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Peacock : The peacock is a common motif found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. It is a symbol of beauty and grace and is said to bring good luck to the wearer. The peacock motif is often created using zari thread, which adds a shimmering effect to the design.
• Paisleys : Paisleys are another popular motif found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. They are typically created using zari thread and feature a curved, teardrop-shaped design. The paisley motif is said to symbolise the flowing nature of life.
• Floral patterns : Floral patterns are also a common motif found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. They are typically created using zari thread and feature a variety of flowers, such as lotus, marigold, and jasmine. The floral patterns are said to symbolise beauty and purity.
• Animal motifs : Animal motifs such as elephants, lions, and parrots are also found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. The elephants are often depicted carrying temple towers or other religious symbols and are said to symbolise strength and wisdom. The lion is also a common motif and is said to symbolise courage, power and strength.
• Divine motifs : Divine motifs like gods, goddesses, and sacred symbols are also found on Kanchipuram silk sarees. The most popular divine motifs are Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga. These motifs are said to bring good luck and prosperity to the wearer.

 

At WeaverStory, in addition to these traditional motifs and patterns, Kanjivaram Silk Sarees also feature a wide range of contemporary designs, such as geometric patterns and abstract designs, which have been adapted to modern tastes while maintaining the traditional essence. They also come in different colours, from the traditional reds and golds to more modern shades like pastels and blues. This variety of designs and colours allows women to choose a Kanjivaram Silk saree that suits their style and the occasion they are wearing it for. 

Kanjivaram Silk Sarees are also versatile in terms of how they can be worn. They can be worn in traditional drapes such as the Nivi and the Kaccha, or they can be worn in more modern styles such as the lehenga saree or the pre-draped saree. WeaverStory also has different types of blouse designs, from traditional silk blouses to more modern styles like off-shoulder or crop tops to complement the Kanjivaram Saree.

Kanchipuram silk sarees are considered a true masterpiece of art and craftsmanship and are a must-have for any saree lover. These Sarees are held in high esteem by art collectors and fashion aficionados as a representation of elegance, heritage, and craftsmanship. They are ideal for every occasion due to their versatility and can be worn in a variety of fashionable styles.

At WeaverStory, we have a wonderful selection of Kanjivaram Silk Sarees with a variety of complementing blouse designs that will surely leave you spellbound. Don’t forget to check out our collection at weaverstory.com 

 

Author - Aditi Bapna