Your one-stop guide to all things Kanjivaram Sarees
Kanjivaram sarees originate from a town called Kanchipuram, nestled in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. It is the traditional centre of silk weaving and handloom industries producing the famous Kanchipuram Sarees aka Kanjivaram Sarees.
It is also known as the silk city, and highly revered for the quality of silk threads used.
Kanchipuram or Kanjivaram Silk sarees are supposed to be among the best in the world. The sarees are hand woven from heavy silk known as Kanchipuram silk. These threads are dyed, dipped in rice water and sundried before being woven into a saree. The yarn is also interlaced with pure gold threads to create the Zari border.
Kanjivaram sarees are characterised by their craftsmanship and heavyweight. These sarees have wide contrasting borders on both sides and the design of the pallu is inspired by South Indian temple architecture, flora and fauna. Kanjivaram sarees are considered to be special and are worn on occasions like weddings and festivals.
It’s no surprise that a Kanjivaram saree is considered a must-have in an Indian bridal wardrobe or wedding trousseau. The best place to acquire authentic Kanjivaram sarees is in Kanchipuram itself, but this is not the only option. We’ve picked out a few online and offline stores across South India that offer a wide range of authentic Kanjivaram sarees to get your saree collection started!
Best Shops To Buy Kanjivaram Sarees in South India:
1. Chennai Silks:
As the name ‘Chennai Silks‘ suggests, this store is famous not only in Tamil Nadu but also across South India. They are one of the largest textile stores and have 27 outlets in India. One can find an assortment of various silk sarees including the famous Kanjivaram saree of which they have an extensive range. If you can’t visit their stores, you can also shop online as they even offer worldwide shipping!
2. RMKV:
With over 97 years of experience in silk and with 2 national awards, RMKV is reputed for its Kanjivaram wedding silk sarees. They are well known for their quality products, design innovations and new techniques in handloom silk weaving. With online retail options and large showrooms in Chennai, Tirunelveli, Coimbatore and Bengaluru you can be sure to find the Kanjivaram saree of your dreams. What’s more? They even let you custom design your own saree and have it handwoven with their master weavers!
3. Nalli:
This popular family-run brand Nalli has been a household name synonymous with sarees and textiles. Their landmark store in Chennai began in 1928 and has grown by leaps and bounds thanks to their growing number of loyal customers. One can be assured of the purity and authenticity of their Kanjivaram saree while shopping at any of the Nalli outlets in any of the South Indian states. Their online portal showcases an extensive collection of sarees woven using the highest-quality fabrics and you can have it delivered to your doorstep.
4. Pothys:
The House of Pothys is another well-established name when it comes to showcasing a wide variety of Kanjivaram Sarees under one roof. The purity and richness of their silks and luxurious zari work are hallmarks of their sarees. They have several outlets scattered across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka and you can even shop their collection online. Pothys desire to innovate and excel in silk manufacturing won them a Guinness World Record in the year 2005 for creating the world’s longest silk saree!
5. SM Silks:
SM Silks is a trusted brand that sells premium quality Kanjivaram silk sarees. The centuries-old tradition of handloom silk weaving is kept alive at Kancheepuram S.M Silks. Their collection is popular among those looking to add authentic Kanjivaram sarees to their bridal collection as the grandeur of their fine gold zari is one of the best! You can walk into any of their showrooms in Tamilnadu and Karnataka or shop their collection of pure Kanjivaram sarees here.
Here’s an interesting fact – ‘Kanchipuram Silk Sarees’ was the first product in India to receive the Geographical Indication tag!
This stately saree, rich in culture and tradition is a wardrobe must-have for every saree lover and collector. No wonder it’s also a favourite at Binks too!
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