Kalamkari Kanjivaram Silk Sarees

Kalamkari Kanjivaram Silk Sarees

In the world of sarees, Kanjivaram Kalamkari sarees are well renowned because of their vibrant colours and intricated designs. The term "Kanjivaram" is derived from a town named Kanchipuram, from where the saree originated. Kalamkari on the other hand, literally translates to artistry through pen. The best part about these sarees is that they are well-renowned among Indian women from all social classes. However, this saree has made noise in the international market as well and is in demand worldwide.

Craftsmanship And Techniques

The following are some of the techniques involved in weaving the Kalamkari Kanjivaram sarees:

1. Selecting And Preparing Silk

The first step is to pick the finest Kanjivaram silk, which is usually mulberry silk. The sorting and weaving process begins on a traditional handloom and it is crucial to ensure the silk’s integrity throughout this.

2. Washing the Fabric

Once the saree is woven, the fabric is meticulously washed in a solution to prepare it for printing and prevent colour spillage.

3. Kalamkari Design Application

The next step is opting for kalamkari designs that are enriched and applied through hand-drawn blocks printed on silk. This is done using natural dyes derived from minerals and plants. As a result, we get the Kalamkari Kanjivaram sarees.

Distinctive Features Of Kanjivaram Kalamkari Sarees

The following are some of the distinctive features of Kalamkari Kanjivaram sarees:

1. Handcrafted

The skilled artisans pour their heart and soul into creating these sarees, which are a testament to their dedication to producing a beautiful, finished product. Thus, one of the primary distinctive features is that instead of mass production, these sarees are handcrafted.

2. Every Saree Tells A Tale

The intricated design of the Kalamkari silk sarees signifies the enriching history of India. Hence, each of the Kanjivaram sarees emphasises telling the history of Ramayana and Mahabharata. So, it should be understood that when you wear a Kanjivaram saree, you embrace the rich Indian culture.

3. Vibrancy In Colours

The significant feature of these sarees is the collection that they are available in. The sarees come in colours that appeal to the eyes and feel gentle on the skin. Furthermore, the variety in colours will give you a room of options from which you can choose your best.

Occasions And Styling Tips

The following are the styling tips that you can stick to style your KanjIvaram Kalamkari silk sarees:

1. Accessorising It Right

There are uncountable options regarding accessorising, but nothing can beat the beauty of jhumkas. Likewise, when it comes to blouses, it is recommended that you ditch those intricate designs. To enhance the Kalamkari Kanjeevaram saree look, instead go for a classy and sophisticated blouse pattern.

2. The Beauty Of Belt And Flare

This is for those who love to highlight their waistline. For this, you can belt your saree in an efficient way that will help you give a clean and elegant look.

3. Kanjivaram Colours

Another styling tip is choosing the right colour that suits you. For instance, if you have a warm undertone, beige and tan colours are often recommended. On the other hand, for medium under-tone, go for lighter and deeper colours.

Historical Significance

The villages in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have generations practising the Kalamkari art. Back in the Mughal period, it was known as Qualamkari, but it changed into Kalamkari over the period. The beauty of Kanjivaram silk sarees dates back to Hindu mythology around 400 years ago. Legend has it that the descendent of Sage Marcanda, a Kanchi Silk Weaver, also known as the Master Weaver of Gods started this. One can also find the significance of kalamkari patterns on Kanjivaram silk sarees. Kalamkari is one of the most ancient Indian art forms, composed of hand painting or block printing on textile designs.

Care And Maintenance

The following are the tips and tricks that are to be followed to take optimum care and maintenance of your Kanjivaram silk sarees:

• The material of the saree is highly delicate and hence should always be dry cleaned. So, ditch the regular washing protocols with your hand and let the professionals handle it.

• Even if you want to wash your saree with your hands, use cold water only to prevent colour fading.

• Go for handwashing for each section of the saree, as this will help prevent any unnecessary damage that might have happened otherwise.

• Wringing your Kalamkari silk sarees is a bad idea. For this, you can always use a dry towel to remove the excess water.

For storage purposes, ensure that you follow the below-mentioned tips:

• Store your Kanchi Kalamkari sarees away from the regular material sarees. You can do so by storing it in a cotton or a muslin cloth bag.

• If you store it with other silk sarees, ensure you stack no more than five silk sarees in one place. Primarily, if the saree has heavy embroidery, ensure that only a few are stacked.

• Use silica gel in your storage unit to prevent pests from accumulating. Do not use naphthalene balls or air freshener sprays in your storage unit.

Explore The Collection

The following are some of the Kalamkari Kanjivaram silk sarees from the collection:

1. Kanchipuram Silk Kalamkari Peach Saree

This peach saree reflects calm, composition, and elegance. Although the primary colour is peach, it is well followed by rich red. Furthermore, it has a medium border size, which gives it a finished look.

2. Kanchipuram Silk Kalamkari Green Saree

This saree has flamingo motifs all over it. It also has a gold zari with a big red border that beautifully complements the vibe of the saree. On the pallu of the Kalamkari silk sarees, you can see congratulations, gold zari brocade, and yali motifs.

3. Kanchipuram Silk Kalamkari Cream Saree

The Kanjivaram Kalamkari sarees have beautiful elephant motifs and floral vines all over them. The weave has an attractive zari medium cream border with a peacock that perfectly complements the saree. This pastel colour is perfect for a wedding occasion.

Wrapping Up!

As opposed to the past, when these Kalamkari Kanjeevaram sarees were only worn by married women, women of all ages and backgrounds currently wear them. You can elevate your entire Kanjeevaram Kalamkari silk look with the right elements to accessorise. At Singhania's, we take great pride in our Indian handloom culture, which is why we have a wide collection of Kanjivaram Kalamkari sarees for you to explore. For your one-stop destination for saree hopping, be it kanchi kalamkari sarees or anything else, you can take a look at our collection and get yourself the saree that justifies your look.