India is known for its diverse culture, heritage, art and handlooms. Although there is a striking shift in the sartorial sense of people in our country, one remains the same – the demand for handloom fabrics!
However, to boost the handloom community of India and spread global awareness about the rich textiles we have, every 7th of August is celebrated as Indian Handloom Day!
On this day, the Swadeshi Movement started in 1905. Check out some unique Indian handloom fabrics that are appreciated globally and should have in your wardrobe!
1. Kanjeevaram from Tamil Nadu
Originated from Kanchipuram or Kanchi of Tamil Nadu, Kanjeevaram is a rich silk sarees laden with intricate golden zari work. From the stunning and detailed pallu to the smooth glistening texture, these sarees are jewels to any wardrobe!
The artisans take around 10 to 20 days or, in some cases, 6 months to complete a handwoven Kanjeevaram saree. No surprise, very few silk variants can match its elaborate grandeur. The price of this saree is also on the higher side, considering the materials used and the labour an artisan puts into a single piece of saree.
Besides any special occasions, Kanjeevaram sarees hold a special place in bridal trousseau!
2. Baluchari from West Bengal
An Indian handloom fabric that can beat the Benarasi and even Dhakai Muslin is a mighty Baluchari saree from West Bengal! The origin of this saree roots back to 18th century Murshidabad.
The Baluchari sarees are known for their elaborate borders and beautiful pallus. The artistic designs of these sarees mainly depict mythological stories and folktales in minute detail. You will also find the stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata on the sarees.
In a traditional Baluchari, the motifs of Kalka are woven all over with silver zari, and the finest silk fabrics and threads are used. However, now other shining threads are also used to weave this saree.
Typically, the popular colours for Baluchari sarees include red, blue, yellow, white, green, ivory, etc., with thread or delicate zari work of contrasting colours.
The process of making a Baluchari saree is lengthy, which makes it treasured and costly. Besides, it requires true craftsmanship to make such a saree which manifests homegrown art and our glorious history.
3. Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh
With a history of more than 3000 years, Kalamkari is one of the oldest Indian handloom fabrics you must have in your wardrobe. The birthplace of this handloom is Andhra Pardesh.
It is a block-printed or hand-printed textile art noted for its intricate and vivid designs in dark colours. The Kalamkari gained much popularity in the Mughal era. However, it still finds relevance in contemporary fashion.
The best part is that Kalamkari designs go well with contemporary and conventional ensembles. Therefore, you can get Kalamkari designs in sarees, kurtas, dupattas and other clothing categories.
The skilled artisans and weavers of Ventakagiri, Gadwal and Pochampally, are known to produce the finest Kalamkari art.
What are your favourite Indian handloom fabrics, and what is special about them? Comment below!
