What is the relation of silk to the city of Kanchipuram?

by Aarushi Reddy studant

When the material of a saree is discussed, silk is always on top of the list. India is the second largest country in the world to produce silk. It is also the home to different varieties of silk fabrics. There are 29 states here, and all create a different kind of silk. Silk is used to create traditional clothing like salwar suits, dupattas, lehengas, but saree is the most popular.

Soft silk sarees can give an elegant look in the traditional ceremonial events, festivals and informal events like a house party. There are five most popular silk sarees which are given below-

•Chanderi silk sarees

•Kanchi pattu sarees or Kanchipuram sarees

•Banarasi silk sarees

•Paithani silk sarees

•Mysore silk sarees

Kanchipuram or Kanjivaram is a traditional variety of silk which originated from the village called Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram silk sarees are the most popular sarees in South India and are an integral part of weddings here. These sarees have a shine and durability which make them a favourite of women.

The silk is obtained from the mulberry worm which is then converted to Kanchipuram sarees. These hand-woven sarees are known for the 1.2 inches of the warp frame. This frame holds up to 60 holes through which there would be 240 warp threads. Also, around 250-300 threads get woven into the wept which allows the saree to remain sturdy. It is seen that the zari used in a Kanjivaram saree would be in gold and silver. The silver is used first, and then a coating of gold is applied to it.

Initially, these sarees were made in 9-yard length to describe the temple stories and later they were converted to 6-yard with gold zari weaving on them. There are cheap alternatives to these sarees available for buyers who have a low budget. These alternatives come with artificial gold.

Jyothisareemandir is an online portal where buyers can purchase pattu sarees at the lowest prices.

They have a full range of traditional clothes for both men and women.