Silk sari History in India: Saree is the identity of Indian culture. It is not just a dress, but also a symbol of respect for the country’s tradition, civilization, culture and dignity and identity of women. When an Indian woman wears a saree, her entire personality looks very beautiful, impressive and full of confidence. Many types of sarees are made in India. Many types of fabrics are used, but what is special about silk sarees is not found in any other saree. Most of the women are in love with silk sarees. You will definitely see four-five beautiful silk sarees in her wardrobe. Today ‘World Saree Day 2025’ is being celebrated. The day was started in 2020 to honor the weaving communities of India and the art behind the saree. Saree is not just a traditional cloth, but a symbol of courage and strength for Indian women. The style of saree has been changing for centuries, but its place in Indian culture has never diminished. Talking about silk sarees, their history is also very old. Let us know in detail about in which century the silk saree was introduced, how old is this saree, what is its importance, how many types of silk sarees are there etc…
The history of silk sarees
According to many reports, the history of silk saree traces its roots back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Silk saree has been an important part of Indian culture since ancient times. While there is evidence of silk and cotton clothes in the Indus Valley, there is mention of wearing silk sarees by Mother Sita and Draupadi in the scriptures like Bhabharata and Ramayana. At the same time, when some Persian artisans came to Banaras during the Mughal period (14th-16th century), Persian designs and techniques were incorporated in the silk sarees of Banaras.
binalpatel.in According to a detailed report published on the history of silk sarees in India, silk has an interesting and rich history in India. It plays an important role in the cultural heritage of the country. The history of silk goes back thousands of years and is deeply linked to the history of sarees. The weave of silk sarees is very complex. This is the amazing art of brilliantly skilled artisans, who have been keeping the art of making this saree alive for generations. The arrival of silk in the country is deeply linked to the Silk Road. Silk came to the country through China. Silk is no less than a treasure. It was very favorite among the royal families, queens and empresses. It is said that the secrets related to silk production were closely monitored and protected. Gradually, silk became popular in India and people’s love for it increased. Since then silk sarees were manufactured in Kanchipuram.
Cultural importance of silk sarees
Silk sarees are not only very beautiful to look at, but also look very light, soft and royal. These are very expensive, hence women wear them mostly in weddings, parties and festivals. Hand-woven silk sarees of Banarasi and Kanjeevaram are considered very expensive and prestigious.
Major production areas of silk sarees and types of silk?
There are four types of silk present in the country such as Tussar, Eri, Muga and Mulberry. Beautiful silk sarees are prepared from these only.
1. Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Kanchipuram is a small town in Tamil Nadu, South India. It is from here that Kanchipuram silk sarees originated. This place is famous all over the world for silk sarees. Very beautiful silk sarees are manufactured in Kanchipuram. The specialty of these sarees is their richness. The silk sarees here are very heavy. Another special thing is that the designs made on them are inspired by the temples established here.
2. Banaras, Uttar Pradesh
There is no answer to Banarasi silk sarees. Most women like to wear it. Banarasi sarees have their own distinct identity. The silk sarees here are famous not only in the country but also abroad for their fine zari work, embroidery and brocade (Jamdani style). Each saree is absolutely stunning, a masterpiece in itself. Looking at these, it can be estimated how much hard work the weavers have put into creating this amazing art. That’s why its price also becomes higher.
3. Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore silk sarees are also liked by many women. Mysore silk saree has become the identity of not only South India but also the country and the world. It is very famous for its fine texture, simple yet elegant design and majestic effect. Gold zari borders are made on these sarees. This further enhances the beauty of this saree. Mysore silk sarees are mainly known for their simplicity and decency.
4. Dharmavaram, Andhra Pradesh
Dharmavaram silk sarees are famous for their grandeur, wide borders and bright colors. This saree is considered a symbol of the splendor and prosperity of South India.
5Paithani Silk Sarees, Maharashtra
The cultural significance of Paithani silk sarees is also very special. It is also considered a symbol of pride, prosperity and femininity. People traditionally give it to the bride as a gift at weddings.
Silk sarees are always in fashion
Silk sarees never go out of fashion. Their fashion never gets old. These are handed down as heirlooms from generation to generation. From old people to young girls also adore silk sarees. Likes to wear it on special occasions. If they are kept properly, they do not spoil quickly. The shine remains on their work. However, if silk sarees are not maintained properly and washed at home, they can get damaged.
How to differentiate between real and fake silk saree?
-You can identify a real silk saree by touching it. It is very soft to touch, slightly rough and feels slightly warm when rubbed. Fake silk saree will feel smoother and slippery to touch. It will feel cold to touch. You will feel a slight coolness in the real saree.
-Pure silk sarees have a light and natural shine. When you look at it from different angles, it will appear to have an iridescent glow. If it is fake then it will have a very bright, eye-stinging shine.
– Real silk saree is heavy, but if it is fake then it will feel less heavy.
– If one of its threads is burnt, it will smell exactly like the smell that comes when hair is burnt. The ashes will be crumbly. At the same time, when a thread of fake silk saree is burnt, it smells like plastic, which after melting will turn into a hard lump like a pill.
-Real silk saree absorbs water slowly and then expands. But, if it is a fake saree then the water drops will form pearls and keep rolling here and there on the surface.
-It is said that even if a real silk saree is put through a ring, it will easily slip out, whereas if it is a fake saree, it cannot come out from the ring. Can get stuck in the middle.
-While buying a saree, always check the silk mark or geographical indication tag. This proves whether the silk saree is real or fake.
