Kanchipuram is considered the best and the most refined quality silk that is available in the whole of the Indian subcontinent. It is loved and adored by women of all ages. In this article, we are going to know all there is to know about Kanchipuram silk sarees.
The Fabric
Kanchipuram silk is made from the larva of mulberry silkworms. These silks are unbroken, and that is what contributes immensely to the quality of the fabric.
After the silk yarns have been collected, they are dipped in a boiling tub of colors. These yarns are then starched, which gives them a nice sheen before they go to the loom, where it takes approximately one week to finish weaving each saree.
Kanchipuram Saree: An Apparel for the Royals
What makes a Kanchipuram saree even more special is the fact that these sarees often come with weavings of zari. Zari threads are originally silk yarns that are twisted with thin silver wires or gold wires. Zari is precious, and the quality of the zari used on a Kanchipuram saree often ascertains the price of it.
A traditional Kanchipuram saree often has broad zari woven borders and an immaculate looking pallu with intricate designs. Traditional zari bootas are as well woven throughout the length and breadth of the saree.
The Dimensions of a Kanchipuram Saree
Ordinary sarees that we get in the market has an average width of 45 CMS, but the width of a Kanchipuram silk is 48 cms. Length-wise, a typical Kanchipuram is over 6-Meter-long. Kanchipuram silks in themselves are very lightweight as they are of premium quality. However, with the weavings of Zari on them, a typical Kanchipuram silk saree will weigh between 500 gms to 1 kg.
Price Range of Kanchipuram Saree
Kanchipuram silk sarees are very high in demand, both in India and abroad. The price of a Kanchipuram saree ranges between 6000 to 60000, depending on the quality and design of the zari. However, due to their sheen, durability, and texture, the demand of Kanchipuram sarees has never seen a downward trend.
Looming Technique of Kanchipuram Sarees
Weaving Kanchipuram sarees started during the reign of Raja Raja Chola I (985–1014 CE). After which the artisans learned to master the art of weaving these sarees, and to this date, families are invested in weaving sarees of this kind, where this art keeps being passed on from father to son.
'Korvai' is a technique that is used to weave a Kanchipuram saree. In a korvai technique, the borders and pallu are of a single shade, which provides a bright contrast to the body. The motifs that characterizes on the saree are often inspired by nature, architecture, and history, which gives these sarees another dimension.
Patented Kanchipuram Saree
An original and patented Kanchipuram saree can only be made in the Kanchi district in Tamil Nadu. These sarees are handwoven and have a patented tag on them. These tags certify the quality of the silk used and a usage f 40% silver in the zari and 0.5% gold. With the patent and certificate of authenticity, you are sure to get only the best Kanchipuram saree.
Blend of Modernity in the Traditional Kanchipuram
As days have gone by, the traditional Kanchipuram sarees have undergone a change. These days, designers make Kanchipuram sarees and gracefully embellish them with various embellishments other than zari. These Kanchipuram sarees look stunning as well.
What to Look for before buying a Kanchipuram Saree
If you do not want to get duped while buying a Kanchipuram saree, here are a few things that you can check to know its authenticity: -
- Check the dimensions of the saree well
- Have a thorough talk with the retailer regarding the weaving process of the saree
- Look for GI tag
- Burn a thread of the saree, if it completely burns down, it is pure silk. Fake silks leave a sticky substance behind on burning.