Kanchipuram sari

A Kanchipuram sari (also known as a Kanjivaram sari) is a type of sari traditionally made by weavers from Kanchipuram located in Tamil Nadu, India. These are woven naturally. The Kanchipuram sari is distinguished by its wide contrast borders

A single Kanchipuram sari can cost anywhere between 2500 (US$41) to 100000 (US$1,600) or more depending upon the intricacy of work, colors, pattern, material used like zari, gold thread etc

Since 2005, Kanchipuram saris are protected by a Geographical Indication label, certifying their origin

Legend and history

According to legends in [Hindu mythology] Kanchi silk weavers are the descendants of Sage Markanda, the master weaver of Gods who is supposed to have woven tissue from lotus fibre. Also, while cotton is considered to the be the favourite fabric of Lord Shiva silk was preferred by Lord Vishnu.

 

Themes and motifs

Suns, moons, chariots, peacocks, parrots, swans, lions, coins, mangoes, leaves and many such motifs are woven into Kanchipuram patterns. Other common motifs include a jasmine bud within a square or a round frame, locally known as mallinaggu. Another is Thandavalam where parallel lines run across the body of the Sari.

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