By Khinkhwab - The Essence of Banaras

05/11/2023 Considered one of the most gorgeous sarees all over the world the Kanjeevaram gets its name from the village of its origin Kanchipuram. This gorgeous fabric is also known as Kanchipuram. Owning its name, Kanjeevaram can be considered as South Indian's version of Banarasi silk sarees. These mesmerizing sarees are made with a beautiful blend of colors and thick fabric. The touch of gold in Kanjeevaram sarees make them perfect for every occasion or celebration.
Origin and history
The history of Kanjeevaram silk sarees can be traced back to Hindu mythology. It is said that the Kanjeevaram Silk Weavers are the descendants of Markanda, who was known for weaving clothes for the Gods themselves. Originating from a small town of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu this gorgeous weave has a history of more than 400 years. It is said that the two major weaving communities, the Devangas and the Saligars came all the way from Andra Pradesh and settled in the village of Kanchipuram. Utilizing their weaving skills they started weaving mesmerizing Kanjeevaram silk sarees including gorgeous designs of figures they saw on the temples around the village. Soon after this beautiful fabric earned it's popularity and became one of the must-haves from the saree lovers.
Weaving process
Woven in pure mulberry silk each and every Kanjeevaram silk saree is a masterpiece in itself. It is a perfect blend of gorgeous silk from the south and the pure gold and silver Zari from Gujarat. In order to keep the thickness and stiffness of this fabric, the threads are dipped in rice water and sun-dried before using it. This is followed by interlocking the theme silver wire with the Silk threads. After this, the golden thread is used to complete the weave.
Special features
One of the most special features of Kanjeevaram silk sarees is that the Pallu and the borders are weaved separately and eventually join together. The zigzag pattern that joins both the parts is also known as the pitni. The Pallu of the Kanjeevaram saree is usually quite different in design and color from the body. The Kanjeevaram fabric is considered to be one of the most durable and strong fabrics. As the saree is made of three Silk threads twisted together with the silver wire it becomes more durable. Usually, a Kanjeevaram saree can be as heavy as 2 kilos.
Motifs and Varieties
Starting from the beginning till now Kanjeevaram silk sarees include gorgeous mythological stories into the design along with stunning Temple figurines. They also have motifs from various temples and general paintings in the border of the saree. The body of these gorgeous beauties boats of Temple designs, stripes, and floral buttas.
Originating as a nine-yard wonder, the Kanjeevaram silk sarees have always been high on demand. Due to its popularity soon a six-yard weave was included. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful designs and blend of colors of these sarees. Make this gorgeous beauty a part of your collection and enjoy the rich history of a Kanjeevaram silk saree.
Bollywood and Kanjeevaram
This six-yard beauty has its own place in the heart of Bollywood beauties. Starting from veteran Bollywood stars to the rising ones, Kanjeevaram has always been a show stopper for them! Here are some of the Bollywood beauties rocking the floor in Kanjeevaram:
Sridevi
Talk about beauties complimenting each other! Gorgeous Sridevi will always stay in our hearts with her mesmerizing smile and poise with which she carried a Kanjeevaram!

Deepika Padukone
This stunning lady can carry any ethnic wear beautifully. We loved the way she wears this pretty pink Kanjivaram Saree!
Vidya Balan
Being a huge saree lover herself, Vidya Balan has won all hearts in a Kanjeevaram numerous times

Priyanka Chopra
Desi girl Priyanka Chopra is looking extremely stunning in this gorgeous golden border Kanjeevaram

Rekha
Last but not the least! No one can flaunt and easily carry the Kanjivaram the way this South beauty Rekha does every time, It is such a visual delight to see the way she drapes herself in this six yard Kanjivaram so traditionally

Popular brands for Kanjivaram
Originating as a six-yard wonder, the Kanjeevaram silk sarees have always been high on demand. Due to its popularity soon a six-yard weave was included. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful designs and blend of colors of these sarees. One of the great online spaces to grab some of the most gorgeous and authentic Kanjeevaram sarees is Kanakavalli. Their collection of Kanjeevaram silk sarees are beyond words. Make this gorgeous beauty a part of your collection and enjoy the rich history of a Kanjeevaram silk saree.
Few other brands which are famous for Kanjivaram sarees are Nalli Silks, Bharathsthali, Angadi Silks etc.
If you are looking at supporting handmade and buy Handloom Banarasi silk attires online, you can find them all in this one-stop-shop Khinkhwab - The Essence of Banaras