Kanjeevaram Sarees

Kanjeevaram Sarees are the traditional silk sarees woven by the weavers of Kanchipuram. It is referred as "Queen of Silk Sarees". In 2005, "Kanchipuram Silk Sarees" received the 'Geographical Indication' tag, the first product in India to carry this label.

Kanchipuram town is located in Tamilnadu of South India and is famous for its Pallav temples and hand woven silk sarees and even called silk city. As estimated in 2008, nearly 5000 families who live in this town are engaged in this silk business.

According to Hindu Mythology, weavers of Kanchi are the descendants of Sage Markanda (master weaver of Gods who is supposed to have woven tissue from lotus fibre). Silk is also considered to be the favourite fabric of Lord Vishnu.

Kanjeevaram saree is known for its vibrant colours, Zari work and durability. These sarees can be preserved for more than 100 years and become a heirloom piece. Every south indian girl will have this magnificient Kanjeevaram saree in her wedding trousseau. These sarees are lovingly worn by people of all ages.

The motifs used in a Kanchipuram saree are heavily based on the Pallava temples,
palaces and paintings. 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. Another is Thandavalam where parallel lines run across the body of the Sari. However, these days one can see scenes from great epics, Ramayana and along with the Bhagwad Gita being used as motifs.

Weaving style of these sarees is also very unique. If the pallu or border has to be woven in a different shade then it is first separately woven and then delicately joined to the Saree. The part where the saree's body meets the border and pallu is often denoted by a zig zag line. 

These sarees are available in a large price range depending on the quality of silk, design, and the amount of gold thread work in the saree. A single Kanchipuram saree can cost between 2500 INR to 100000 INR. The zari used in Kanjeevaram sarees is the gold-dipped silver threads. The heavier the saree the costlier it is and also more pure. A double shade will cost you more than a single shade and length and width of the pallu and border also determines the cost.