What are the distinguishing features of Kanchi sarees?

by Aarushi Reddy studant

Kanchipuram or Kanchi is a city located in the Tamil Nadu region of Southern India. This city has a massive cultural significance, but with time it has become famous for saree production. Today Kanchi pattu sarees named after this city are famous not only in the Indian sub-continent but around the globe. Locally known by the name of Kanjivaram sarees, these sarees come in the southern style of weaving.

The Government of India recognised it as a Geographical indication officially since the year 2005-06. Pattu sarees is the traditional name of silk sarees in South of India. Thus, the name Kanchi pattu sarees translates to Kanchi silk sarees.

There are approximately 5000 families who are involved in the saree business in this region. Also, 25 silk and cotton yarn industries and 60 dyeing units are currently in operation. The sarees woven are from the pure mulberry silk thread which comes from South of India, and the zari comes from Gujarat.

To weave a Kanchi saree, a combination of three shuttles get used. The weaver works on the right side, and his aids work on the left side of the shuttle. The colour of body and design is entirely contrasting with each other. They get woven separately and then joined carefully to the sari. A zig-zag line denotes the part where the body meets the pallu.

The Kanchi sarees gets distinguished by their broad contrasting borders. Temple borders, checks, stripes and floral (buttas) are traditional designs which are common on these sarees. The leaves, birds and animals are inspirations for these paintings with paintings depicting Ramayana and Mahabharata scenes also used in the patterns.

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