DISCOVER A FIVE THOUSAND YEAR OLD LINEAGE OF HANDCRAFTED CULTURE.
KANJEEVARAM
Kanjeevaram silk sarees, originating from the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, are renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate craftsmanship. With a legacy tracing back to the legendary weaver Sage Markanda, these sarees have been passed down through generations as family heirlooms. Often adorned with motifs from Hindu Mythology ythology and the art of Raja Ravi Varma, Kanjeevaram sarees symbolize luxury, tradition, and cultural heritage, making them cherished pieces for weddings and special occasions.
BANARASI
Banarasi sarees, hailing from the ancient city of Varanasi, have a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, these sarees are woven with luxurious silk and adorned with gold and silver zari threads. Gaining prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries, Banarasi sarees are considered some of the finest in India, known for their opulent handwoven patterns and exquisite detailing, making them a symbol of elegance and tradition for special occasions.
PAITHANI
Paithani sarees, originating from Paithan in Maharashtra's Aurangabad district. Revered as the Maharashtrian bride’s favorite, Paithani sarees are one of India's oldest and most exquisite weaving traditions, with origins tracing back to around 200 B.C. during the Satavahana dynasty. These sarees are meticulously handwoven on traditional looms, a process that demands immense skill and patience, often taking months to complete a single piece. Adorned with nature-inspired motifs like peacocks, lotuses, and parrots, Paithani sarees reflect the beauty of the natural world and mythological tales.
GADWAL
Gadwal sarees, originating from the town of Gadwal in Telangana. Traditionally crafted for aristocracy, these sarees were promoted by the local rulers of Gadwal. Handwoven using traditional pit looms, each saree can take several weeks to complete. A distinctive feature of Gadwal sarees is their interlocking technique, which blends the body and border in contrasting hues and designs, often inspired by motifs like peacocks, flowers, and temple patterns. The opulent zari work on the borders adds to their grandeur, making these sarees a symbol of elegance and craftsmanship.
IKKAT
Ikkat sarees are a symbolic expression of India’s rich textile heritage, known for their unique dyeing technique that creates intricate, blurred patterns. The word Ikkat comes from the Malay word mengikat, meaning "to bind" or "tie," referring to the method of dyeing threads before weaving them into fabric. This technique is practiced in regions such as Gujarat, Odisha, and Telangana, where skilled artisans meticulously tie and dye the yarn to form mesmerizing patterns. The designs often feature bold geometric shapes, florals, and traditional motifs. With their striking visual appeal, Ikkat sarees make a stunning addition to any wardrobe.
KALAMKARI
Kalamkari sarees, an ancient art form dating back over 3,000 years, are distinguished by their vibrant hand-painting or block-printing on fabric. Derived from the words kalam (pen) and kari (craft), this craft involves a detailed process where artisans depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as various deities. Each saree is unique, with natural dyes and painstaking techniques that bring the stories to life. Kalamkari sarees not only capture the essence of India’s cultural legacy but also showcase the timeless artistry and craftsmanship passed down through generations.
CHIKANKARI
Chikankari, a celebrated form of embroidery from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is known for its delicate floral patterns. Introduced in the 16th century by Empress Noor Jahan, wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, the Persian-style embroidery was adopted and refined by local artisans in Lucknow. Traditionally done on fine fabrics like muslin, chiffon, and georgette, Chikankari uses hand-embroidery techniques to create stunning visual effects. The designs, often inspired by nature with motifs such as flowers, leaves, and vines, are crafted with white or light-colored thread on contrasting fabrics. Chikankari sarees embody the ethereal elegance and timeless charm of Lucknow's rich cultural heritage.
BANDEJ
Bandej, also known as Bandhani, is a traditional form of tie-dye practiced in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Maharashtra. This art form involves tightly tying small portions of fabric with threads before dyeing them, creating stunning, circular patterns that resemble dots, waves, and other geometric shapes. The technique, dating back thousands of years, is often used for vibrant, festive occasions. The patterns and colors vary by region, with bold reds, yellows, and greens being common. Bandej sarees are celebrated for their vivid colors, striking patterns, and the labor-intensive process that creates each unique piece.
VENKATAGIRI
Venkatagiri sarees, originating from the town of Venkatagiri in Andhra Pradesh, are celebrated for their lightweight, fine cotton fabric and delicate weaving techniques. These sarees are traditionally woven with intricate but minimalistic borders and pallu designs, often featuring patterns inspired by nature, such as flowers and vines. Known for their smooth texture and elegance, Venkatagiri sarees have been a favorite for everyday wear and formal occasions alike. The craftsmanship involved in creating these sarees has been passed down through generations, making them an enduring symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s rich textile heritage.
ILKAL
Ilkal sarees, hailing from the town of Ilkal in Karnataka's Bagalkot district, are among India's oldest and most revered handloom traditions, with a history dating back to the 8th century. Known for their distinctive borders and pallus, these sarees feature traditional patterns such as temple motifs, stripes, and geometric designs. Ilkal sarees are a reflection of Karnataka’s rich textile heritage, celebrated for their vibrant colors, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.
KHANI
Khani sarees trace their roots to the northern regions of India, particularly Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Originating centuries ago, Khani weaving is known for its detailed patterns, often incorporating geometric shapes, floral motifs, and paisleys. The handweaving process, typically done on a pit loom, requires skilled artisans who meticulously craft each design, making the fabric highly valued. Khani shawls and sarees are celebrated for their rich textures, and the craftsmanship passed down through generations, embodying the artistry and history of the region.
MOLAKALMURU
Molakalmuru sarees, originating from the taluk of Molakalmuru in Karnataka, are steeped in both history and artistry. The name is believed to come from a battle between native Indians and the British. Molakalmuru sarees are known for their kuttu and chalu weaving techniques, they feature nature-inspired designs along the borders, pallus, and buttas. With royal patronage during the reign of Nalvadi Krishnarajendra Wadiyar, Molakalmuru sarees became a symbol of grace and tradition, celebrated for their intricate patterns and the artistry that defines them.
