Kanjivaram sarees, also known as Kanchipuram sarees, are traditional silk sarees that originated in Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India. These sarees are known for their rich texture, intricate designs, and vibrant colors and are considered one of the finest and most luxurious forms of Indian sarees.
History of Kanjivaram Sarees
The history of Kanjivaram sarees can be traced back to the 7th century when the Chola dynasty ruled Tamil Nadu. The Chola kings were great patrons of art and culture and encouraged silk saree weaving in the region. It is believed that skilled weavers were brought to Kanchipuram from Andhra Pradesh during this time to create intricate and unique sarees for the royal court.
During the reign of the Vijayanagara empire in the 16th century, Kanchipuram became a major center for silk weaving. The weavers began using pure mulberry silk yarn and pure zari threads made of gold and silver to create exceptional quality and beauty sarees.
The 17th and 18th centuries saw a decline in the production of Kanjivaram sarees due to various invasions and political upheavals in the region. However, the British colonization of India in the 19th century led to the revival of the silk-weaving industry in Kanchipuram. The weavers could access new markets and were encouraged to create designs that catered to British tastes.
Significance of Kanjivaram Sarees
Kanjivaram silk sarees are considered a symbol of tradition and culture in Tamil Nadu. They are worn at weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. These sarees are also considered prized possessions and are often passed down from generation to generation.
The Kanjivaram saree is known for its unique weaving technique that involves the use of three shuttles. The body of the saree, border, and pallu are woven separately and then interlocked to create a seamless and intricate design. The borders of the saree often feature motifs of peacocks, elephants, and flowers, while the pallu features intricate designs of temples, gods, and goddesses.
The Kanjivaram silk saree is also known for its vibrant colors that are achieved through dyeing the silk yarn before it is woven. The colors used in Kanjivaram sarees are derived from natural sources like flowers, leaves, and roots and are known for their long-lasting vibrancy.
Kanjivaram sarees are also known for their durability and longevity. They are made of pure mulberry silk and zari threads, ensuring that the saree lasts for a long time. These sarees are also easy to maintain and can be hand-washed or dry-cleaned.
In recent times, Kanjeevaram sarees have gained popularity not just in India but also internationally. They are considered a symbol of luxury and elegance and are often worn by celebrities and politicians. The Indian government has also recognized Kanjivaram sarees’ significance and granted them Geographical Indication (GI) status to protect their authenticity and uniqueness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kanjeevaram sarees are a significant part of India’s rich cultural heritage. Their long and fascinating history dates back to the 7th century and has been worn by generations of women in Tamil Nadu.
The unique weaving technique, intricate designs, vibrant colors, and durability of Kanjivaram sarees make them a prized possession that is treasured by many. With increasing technology and the advanced world, you can easily get Kanchipuram sarees online for yourself and your loved ones from renowned Apps and websites like Taneira.