A diverse land, housing a variety of people hailing from different ethnicities, cultures, and traditions, India is known to be a unique country. Each region has specific set of cultures and traditions contributing to the beauty of India. Saree, considered as one of the traditional Indian Ethnic wear has been worn throughout the country in several styles according to region.
The history of saree dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Considered as one of the oldest forms of attire across the world, the saree is worn by several ethnicities all across the world. The history of the arrival of Aryans, Guptas, an empire of Mauryas and Mughal, and other crucial dynasties in India has contributed to the existence of India saree in one or another way. In earlier times during the Mughal dynasty, the fabric of saree was rich, adorned with stunning and royal motifs combined by weavers to make the garment.
Modern day culture has been a result of the age old tradition of wearing Sarees. Let us look at most popular sarees from different regions of our country.
Taant from West Bengal - A traditional saree from the land of Bengal, made of cotton, is the preferred daily wear outfit of many in Bengal. Light and easy to wear, it generally comes with thick border and beautiful prints.
Kasavu from Kerala - Kasavu saree is a modern version of settu saree (a mundu - dhoti, a blouse and a stole) and is characterized by a thick golden border, which is woven with threads of real gold. To keep up with the modern consumers, it has diversified to include vibrant colors and synthetic threads.
Kanjeevaram from Tamil Nadu - The queen of sarees, kanjeevaram sarees are made from a traditionally woven silk from the region of kanjeevaram. The elegant sarees are rich in colour and texture. Emanate grace as you drape this rarity.
Bomkai from Odisha - Also known as the sonepuri silk, bomkai saree is a piece of art with ikat, embroidery and intricate thread work, woven into a beautiful nine-yard wonder. Available in silk and cotton, this drape make for a good festive wear.
Sambalpuri from Odisha - A traditional hand-woven saree, the sambalpuri is a delicate weave of different techniques. The threads are dyed before they are woven; leading to everlasting rich colors.
Paithani from Maharashtra - The paithani saree is a specialty of Aurangabad. The hand woven silk saree is grand and elegant. Its zari border, fine motifs and the recurrent peacock design is what sets this saree apart.
Bandhani from Gujarat - The name of the saree is derived from the word, ‘bandhan’, which means ties referring to the process of tie and dye. Both Gujarat and Rajasthan are known for the bandhani saree. However, the weavers of the khatri community of Gujarat are known as the pioneers. The art is still prevalent today and highly sought after.
Muga from Assam - The muga sarees from Assam are made using a special kind of silk produced by a larvae that feeds on mainly two special leaves. The resulting silk from these larvae is glossy and very durable. The golden threads of the muga are only found in Assam.
Banarasi from Varanasi - Banarasi sarees are known for their gold and silver zari designs and motifs. Originally woven for royalty, each saree was made with real gold and silver threads. The designing was so intricate that it used to take more than a year to finish weaving one saree.
Pochampally from Telangana - From the town of Boodhan in Andhra Pradesh, hails the famous pochampally silk. These sarees have intricate motifs, geometric ikat designs and are made of the perfect combination of silk and cotton. These sarees are just too royal and to die for.
Chanderi from Madhya Pradesh – Chanderi fabric is a mix of Silk, zari and cotton woven together that is lighter than a feather. It is a gorgeous, bright and a fuss free fabric. It is the best choice for first time Saree drapers.
Konrad from Tamil Nadu - Popularly known as the temple saree, konrad sarees were originally woven for the temple idols. The saree fabric usually has either stripes or checks and a wide border. With motifs of animals and natural elements, the border makes this saree so special.
Phulkari from Punjab - Phulkari translating to ‘flower work’, comprises thread work in bright hues in the shape of flowers. The phulkari made its first appearance in the legendary heer-ranjha story and has been there ever since. The phulkari embroidery is usually done on either cotton blends or khadi fabrics.
Chikankari from Lucknow – The famous Chikankari from Lucknow is definitely a must have for your closet. Believed to be introduced by the Mughals, the simple and precise threadwork on the garment, gives it a subtle, classy look. Traditionally done on a muslin cloth, it is now available on almost all kinds of fabrics.
Now that you have read about our rich Saree culture and the different types from all regions of our country, head over to our “Shop” section to choose your style.
