Indian Selections

Ask any Indian woman all around the world about her collection of sarees, and you will surely soon gather the feeling that their wardrobe is incomplete without a kanjeevaram saree. The reason for this belief is found out only when one sees and gets the feel of a proper kanjeevaram saree. The sari speaks of the beauty, grace dignity poise and also the power hidden in every single Indian woman. Its sheer elegance can sweep you off your feet. A kanjeevaram sari is bound to be a crowd puller and it can woo anybody with its absolute beauty.

The saree is made of heavy silk and is characterized by its bright color and the golden zari or thread work along the borders. One end of the sari consists of a huge design or pattern of intricate zari work and this part is left flowing to show off the craftsmanship. These gold threads are actually silver threads dipped in gold. When pleated and worn it gives a wonderful and elegant look and feel. Brides in South India wear kanjeevaram throughout the marriage ceremonies and the sari definitely adds up to the charm of the beautiful bride.

Kancheepuram, the place of origin of this beautiful work of art is a small town in Tamil Nadu. This small town is full of temples and its main tourist attraction is, naturally, sarees. One cannot step out of kancheepuram without at least couple of these extra special saris. Saris represent the essence of womanhood and this one adds special charm to it. These saris have a strong cotton ground with silk and zari pallus and embroidery work. The work on the pallu consists mainly of patterns or paintings of the temples of the pallava period

Kanjeevarams are known for their excellent quality of silk. The heavier the silk, longer is its durability. Mulberry silk produced in certain parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are best suited for it. Simple saris can take up to 10-12 days for preparation. The cost ranges from anything between Rs2000-50,000 depending upon the zari work.

The tedious procedure of making a Kanjeevaram saree starts with the task of preparing the thread.  The thread is twisted, dyed and then dried in the sun. The border, the body and the pallu of the sari are created separately by the weaver. Then, the zari and the silk are interlocked together in an extremely tight joint.

Kanjeevaram can be worn by women of all ages. Western trends do not stay long but this is an art of Indian culture that has a very strong hold. The kanjeevaram was, is and will always be representation of an Indian woman.

**Kanjeevaram sarees are the preferred attire on special occasions for Indian Women