Introduction to Kanjivaram Sarees

Kanjivaram sarees are a delight, a pure delicacy to wear and a pleasure to look at. They are made of heavy silk, with intricate patterns and bright colors. The silk of Kanjivaram enjoys a legendary reputation throughout India and abroad, owing to the artistry and skill of the silk weavers. They belong in the trousseau of every Indian bride.

The hallmark of Kanjivaram sarees is the vibrant colors and heavy zari work on the hem and pallu. The zari work is done with silver threads dipped in gold. Each design is a masterpiece. It is the imagination and dream of the weaver that is woven onto the fabric. Each saree is unique, the colors are vivid, rich and lush. This arouses the interest of national and international buyers. Another unique selling point of Kanjivaram is that the silk is so durable that it can be washed at home.

If you want to purchase a pure Kanjivaram saree then Janardhana Silk House (JSH) is your best stop. You have a wide variety of Kanjivaram silk saree to choose from.

Read on to find out more about what is Kanjivaram saree, its specialty, different types, the shopping guide and more about this silk saree.

Kanjivaram Saree – Its Origin and History

If you are wondering where are Kanjivaram sarees made then its name is the answer itself. Kanjivaram saree derives its name from a small south Indian village – Kanchipuram. This is where these sarees were made. This classic weave provides a thick fabric with gold or silver lace and motifs all over the body of the saree. The Kanchipuram saree is a popular choice of bridal attire in South India.

The Kanjivaram is considered one of the most magnificent sarees in the world and takes its name from its place of origin, Kanchipuram. This wonderful fabric is also known as Kanchipuram. Kanjivaram can be considered the South Indian version of Banarasi silk fabrics. These charming sarees are made of a beautiful blend of colors and thick fabric. The touch of gold in Kanjivaram sarees makes them perfect for any occasion or celebration.

The Kanjivaram saree origin has a history that can be traced back to Hindu mythology. It is said that the silk weavers of Kanjivaram are the descendants of Markanda, who was known for weaving clothes for the gods themselves. This beautiful weaving originated in the small town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu and has a history of more than 400 years.

It is said that the two great weaving communities, the Devangas and the Saligars, came all the way from Andhra Pradesh and settled in the village of Kanchipuram. They used their weaving skills and started weaving the enchanting Kanjivaram silk sarees, which contain magnificent designs of figures they had seen in the temples around the village. Soon this beautiful fabric gained popularity and became one of the must-haves among saree lovers.

The Weaving Process of Kanjivaram

Pure mulberry silk is used in weaving Kanjivaram and this makes each and every saree a masterpiece in itself. The saree is woven with a perfect blend of beautiful silk from the south and pure gold and silver zari from Gujarat. To get the thickness and stiffness of this fabric, the threads are dipped in rice water and dried in the sun before processing. Then the silver wire is interwoven with the silk threads and then for the final weave, the golden thread is used.

Specialty of a Real Kanjivaram Saree

Kanjivaram sarees are a tradition that is often passed down from mother to daughter. Each saree is 6 yards long and is a popular garment for weddings, religious ceremonies and festivals. Kanjivaram silk sarees are suitable for all age groups. Older women wear Kanjivaram silk, which emphasizes their dignity. Middle-aged women wear it with confidence and poise, and the younger beauties wear it with incomparable feminine grace. Kanjivaram is available in a wide price range to suit almost every budget.

The real Kanjivaram silk saree comes with several specialties. Some of the special features of the saree are:
• The pallu and the borders of a Kanjivaram silk saree are weaved separately and finally joined together.
• The saree features a beautiful pitni, which is a zigzag pattern that joins pallu with the border. • Usually, the pallu of the Kanjivaram saree is pretty different in design and color from the body.
• The Kanjivaram fabric is one of the most durable and strong fabrics.
• As three silk threads twisted together with the silver wire are used to make the saree, it becomes more durable.
• Generally, a Kanjivaram saree can weigh as heavy as 2 kilos.

Different types of Kanjivaram Sarees

Kanchipuram silk sarees stand out for their appeal, offering a wide range of patterns and colors to suit a variety of tastes. Although the sarees have remained the same in their original technique, the patterns and color blends have changed for the newer generation. Silk sarees from Kanchipuram make everyone look exquisite, whether it is a teenager or an octogenarian! You will find several types of Kanjivaram sarees. Here are the five most popular silk saris from Kanchipuram that we have compiled for you.

• Plain Kanjivaram silk saree with gold border

The saree comes with a contrasting woven border or a zari border with a plain base, and the border is attached to the saree with a zigzag border.

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Temple border Kanjivaram silk saree

The design of the temple borders (triangular or zigzag) on the edge of the saree or between the pallu and the body part makes it unique.

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Modern Kanjivaram silk saree

The latest styles of motifs, designs and colors apart from the traditional ones is what makes modern Kanjivaram sarees unique.

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Traditional Kanjivaram silk saree

The beautiful checks, coin or chakra motifs, temple borders and traditional colors make up the traditional sarees which are mostly worn for puja and weddings as bridal sarees.

Floral weave Kanjivaram silk saree

These sarees are designed in floral or paisley motifs scattered in the body of the saree and have a zari pallu part and we all love these floral Kanjivaram.

Different Kanjivaram Silk Sarees For Wedding

For an Indian wedding, there is nothing better than silk sarees. Modern characteristics describe both the courage of women and their historical foundations, which are deeply rooted in Indian cultural history. The bigger the changes are, the more splendid they look and the more obvious and radiant the aura of the women is. Look at these gorgeous and different Kanjivaram sarees types for an upcoming wedding.

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Pure golden Kanjivaram silk saree

This silk saree from Kanchipuram is the definition of golden light, especially with the shade of golden yellow silk textile. The saree features intricate embroidery that can only be seen when you look closely. Combine it with a golden blouse, but in a lighter shade than the saree. If you are wearing a patterned shirt or masonry, better make it look a little elegant.

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Orange Kanjivaram silk saree

This saree has the same look and is a blend of vibrant red and cheerful yellow. The polygonal dotted booti extends along the entire length of the saree, giving it a brilliant look. Also, the saree is lined with an orange zari with intricate patterns.

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Purple Kanjivaram silk saree

The wonderful blend of purple and pure golden hue makes this saree the best choice for a wedding ceremony. The entire body of the saree is covered with delicate and intricate patterns, while the hem is over an inch thick. On the edge of the model, there is two long golden zari on the two sides of the patterns. Complete the golden sparkle of the saree with gold jewelry.

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Magenta Kanjivaram silk saree

All in all, you will not miss this saree at first sight. In rectangular block patterns spread across the saree lies the beauty of the saree. The fabric is made of thick magenta genuine mulberry silk. Golden embroidery work adorns the entire piece, creating a thick zari gold border. Make sure that the platitudes narrow over the shoulder, exposing only the golden border. This will make them more attractive and ethnic.

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Lavish red Kanjivaram silk saree

The style will catch everyone’s eyes with short-sleeved blouses and flowers tied with the long cascading hair. Try to minimize bright gems, as the saree itself has a shimmering golden effect. An excess of gemstones will make it look tortured and cluttered. Now you have a small zari weaving in shiny red tone over matte red silk fabric in the style of Kanchipuram silk saree. The border, which has a ton of redness, is an inch thick with a gold zari.

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Sea green Kanjivaram silk saree

It makes a great wedding party wear for the evening, especially because of the exquisite color combination in this silk saree from Kanchipuram. The entire saree body is woven in parrot green, with glittering circles and a pattern block on the fabric. The border has two patterns, while the inner lining is worked, the outside is lined with reddish gold zari.

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Yellow Kanjivaram silk saree

This gorgeous silk saree comes in a bright and stunning yellow hue. The designs used in it are also amazing and attractive. Moreover, the yellow hue itself is quite unique and quirky. You can try it out for an intimate wedding with a beach vibe.

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Maroon Kanjivaram saree

The mix of the maroon border and the golden zari makes the saree dreamy and beautiful. Make sure to wear large gemstones to enhance the shine. This silk saree from Kanchipuram is something that will go with any look you can wear.

There are many more types of Kanjivaram sarees with new designs, styles and colors that are a mix of all the above.

How to maintain and take care of Kanjivaram sarees?

Kanjivaram sarees are pure beauty and most saree lovers wish to possess one. While we love new outfits for all occasions, it is important to take care of those stunning Kanjivarams so they last forever. After all, how can you create an heirloom if you don’t take care of the stunning silk?

Kanjivaram is one of the most traditional and richest handlooms in India. From top Bollywood actresses like Rekha to housewives, Kanjivaram silk sarees are known by all women. However, these very expensive sarees need to be taken care of properly so that they don’t lose their shine. Read on to know the tips and tricks on how to keep your Kanjivaram saree always beautiful!

How to wash your Kanjivaram saree?

• Dry Cleaning: Always have your sarees dry cleaned instead of washing them at home. Dry cleaning keeps the sheen of the fabric intact.
• Home washing: If you end up washing your Kanjivaram at home, then always wash it with cold water and shampoo. Washing your Kanjivaram Saree in hot water may weaken the silk fabric.
• Drying: You should never dry your silk saree under direct sunlight. Dry the saree in a room out of direct sunlight and tumble dry to remove excess water.
• Detergents and soaps: Wash your saree with a light shampoo rather than detergents. Soapberries or soap nuts are a good alternative to chemical soaps. They’ll not even harm the zari or silk of your Kanjivaram.
• Ironing: Don’t iron your saree directly. Always place a cloth over it and iron it. Ironing directly can affect its shine.
• Steaming: Steaming is always the safest way to remove wrinkles in a Kanjivaram silk saree.
• Stains: A stained Kanjivaram silk saree should be dry cleaned as soon as possible to remove the stain. The longer it takes, the more difficult it’ll be to remove the stain. Stubborn stains should be treated with laundry.
• Moth protection: If you want to keep your Kanjivaram saree for a long time, you should use moth repellents such as silica gel or neem leaves. However, avoid using naphthalene balls as they can damage the fabric of your saree.

How to store a Kanjivaram saree?

To keep intact the texture, color and shine of the Kanjivaram saree, it is important to know how to store Kanjivaram sarees properly. Here are a few things that you should know if you want to store your silk sarees.
• Storing Kanjivaram: Don’t place or store cotton or other sarees along with the Kanjivaram. Wrap your precious saree in muslin or pure cotton cloth and store it separately to preserve its longevity.
• Folding the saree: Always fold your sarees carefully so that the zari doesn’t get damaged. For silk, it’s advisable to fold the saree with the zari facing inwards to protect the sheen.
• Fading of colors: To avoid fading of colors, keep them in a dry and dark place where sunlight doesn’t fall on them.
• Handling: Unfold your silk sarees and preferably change the folding every 3 months. Don’t use plastic covers for sarees, use cloth covers if you don’t want to wrap them in muslin.
• Air your saree: Kanjivarams should be aired in the shade, or even in your own room. If you do this every 2 to 3 months, your saree will stay in good condition for a long time.
• Air fresheners: Never use naphthalene balls as moth repellents or even air freshener sprays where your saree is stored. Instead, use neem leaves. You can also use silica gel if you’re afraid of mold growth on your saree.

Things that you need to consider before buying a Kanjivaram saree

Kanjivaram Silk Saree is all about style and elegance. It is expensive clothing and this makes it even more important to make a smart purchase. There are several criteria that you need to consider in order to buy the best quality Kanjivaram silk saree. Here, we have provided a quick and complete Kanchipuram shopping guide.

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Quality of silk

Pure silk threads are used for making Kanjivaram sarees. However, the seller must make it clear if it is a mixed saree. Also, look for the certificate of authenticity from the Indian Silk Mark Organization. Always make sure to purchase the pure Kanjivaram silk saree from an authentic silk store such as the Janardhana Silk House.

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Zari quality

A “pure zari silk saree” may contain only pure silver and gold, if you see one. For pure zari work, silk and silver wire are knitted together, and then a golden wire is applied on top. This, of course, results in a higher price for the saree. Therefore, inquire about the authenticity of the zari.

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Quality of weaving

The weaving of Kanjivaram silk sarees is their most important selling point. To determine if a saree is genuine, check the details. If there are any weaving defects, the product is almost certainly fake. Therefore, check the saree carefully before finalizing the purchase.

Where to buy Kanjivaram sarees?

The purchase of a Kanjivaram saree is not considered an expense, but an investment. Currently, you will find a growing number of designs and themes that are sure to throw you into confusion. You will have many favorites in your list and this will make it hard for you to choose one.

Make sure that you buy these types of sarees only from a trusted supplier like Janardhana Silk House. We are one of the most trusted silk saree stores in India. With more than 10,000+ saree designs, we proudly display our Indian heritage in a contemporary way! If you love sarees, JSH is your first stop. We have a collection of Kanjivaram sarees with a variety of color, edge designs stunning motifs, etc., all in one place.

Your search for the finest Indian handloom and handmade products from skilled artisans across India ends at JSH. We preserve and promote Indian handlooms and bring timeless treasures from the heart of the country. JSH is a reservoir of finest weavings from Banaras, Chanderi, Gujarat, Bengal, Maheshwar and Kanchipuram with an exquisite range of silk sarees.