What makes Kanchipuram sarees exceptional?

by Aarushi Reddy studant

Kanchipuram silk or Kanchi Pattu sarees is an exceptional variety of sarees manufactured in the Kanchipuram of Tamil Nadu. The first image which strikes our mind when the name of saree is taken is a bright, colourful object which is what a typical Kanchi silk saree looks like. These sarees enjoy the same popularity in south India which Banarasi sarees have in the north.

The city of Kanchipuram is primarily known for two reasons- First, it is the “city of thousand temples” and it has some magnificent architectural structures in it. Second, this city manufactures the queen of silk sarees called as the Kanchipuram sarees. As of 2008, it was estimated that the city had an estimated 5,000 families involved in the production of these sarees.

These families through the silk of highest quality manufacture Kanchipuram silk sarees. The raw materials used in these sarees are pure mulberry silk threads, zari and dye. The price of this saree starts from Rs 2000 and goes up to lakhs.

The Kanchi pattu sarees are also used in weddings in south India independent of cast and religion. These sarees are worn by people of all ages for all kinds of functions and ceremonies. Since generations, these sarees get passed down and are part of Indian bride’s attire.

These pattu sarees consist of three parts- the body, “pallu” and the border. The border of these sarees is filled with colours and designs. It is filled with pictures of mangoes, peacocks, elephants and scenes of epics like Mahabharata. The designs in the pallu are of the sculptures and art of the temples. “Yashoda and Krishna”, “Kaliyamardanam” are the example of the themes which are used.

Do you want to buy soft silk sarees for a family function?

Visit Jyothisareemandir, they specialise in traditional wedding wear and have sarees for women of all ages.