Kanjivaram Sarees or Kanchipuram Sarees are heirloom sarees that are woven by the weavers or artisans of Kachipuram district in Tamil Nadu, South India. According to the Hindu mythology, Kanchi silk weavers are direct descendants of Sage Markanda. The sage is regarded the master weaver of the gods and weaves clothes from the lotus fiber. An ethnic Kanjivaram sari can weigh up to 500gms the reason being, silver threads are dipped in gold are used to create the intricate motifs and a heavy zari borders.
Every South Indian woman would have at least one Kanjivaram saree in her wardrobe. It is the silk that is worn for all auspicious occasions and functions. Normally South Indian Brides get married in these heavily woven silks.
A typical bridal kanjivaram saree has intricate zari thread work all over which gives it a rich golden look and feel. It is heavy and it comes with a blouse that is either contrast in colour or of the same colour. An alternative designer blouse also works well with these sarees. It gives the bride an attractive and a charming look.
cream and maroon Kanjivaram saree with heavy bridal jewellery makes this stunning bride look elegant and beautiful.
The colourful motifs and designs are inspired by nature. Therefore, a traditional Kanjivaram saree has animals, paisley, flowers, peacocks, leaves and mangos as motifs. The price of the Kanjivaram saree is determined by the quality of silk yarn (count per square inch), the intricacy of the motifs and the amount of gold zari thread work on the saree.
Related: Complete your Bridal Look with Rich Kanchivaram Sarees
Different types of motifs found on Kanjivaram sarees
A traditional Hindu bride of South India gets married in either dark red, reddish maroon, chilli red or an orangish-red silk saree with heavy zari work. She has to stand out in the crowd for her wedding. She could also wear one at the ceremonies that follow the wedding, such as the reception, the haldi ceremony, the shanti muhurutham (auspicious time of the wedding) and so on. Colours such as bright peacock blue, mango yellow, olive green, vibrant pinks and lively oranges are most preferred. Today it’s not just the south Indians, but the Indians from all over the country and those who live abroad whose wardrobes boast of at least one Kanjivaram silk saree. Here, feast your eyes on some beautiful and contemporary designs and colours from the weavers of Kancheepuram.
Related: Nalli Silks – Art of choosing Indian wedding sarees
Pink Saree in silk with lotus motifs on one side of the border and a narrow silk border of gold zari is on the other side. The intricately worked pallu and the wide border of the sari adds beauty to the overall look.
The white silk squares and broad red border is a charming sari for an evening reception. The huge peacock and floral motifs is the highlight of this sari.
Related : Pure Silk Sarees
An awesome checkered piece in sunset orange and a subtle pink pallu that is intricately worked with a golden border is an ideal ensemble for any occasion.
Red and golden floral motifs is a bridal wear. The intricately worked floral pallu not only adds charm but also elegance to the sari and the wearer.
Related : Kalamkari Silk Sarees
This is an elegant silk in beige colour with multiple temple designs on the bottom border, and the rich golden pallu is an apt silk saree for a Kerala Christian bride.
This beautiful red Kanjivaram silk saree was showcased in Lakme Fashion Week 2012 by Gaurang.-
Shilpa Shetty in a gorgeous pink Kanjivaram saree, accompanied by her husband Raj Kundra on their visit to the Triputi temple.
South Indian actress Sneha in a bridal Kanjivaram saree. She is wearing Swarovski studded Kanjivaram saree with kundan bridal jewellery and a delicate sari belt.
An off-white bridal Kanjivaram saree with rich zari border and heavy Exquisite bridal jewellery.-