India has always been considered to be a land of diverse cultures and traditions. With a wide number of Indian states, the country features the most exclusive customs that are simply unmatchable in any part of the world. Not only in terms of customs and rituals, the country spells miscellany in language, food and attire as well. Yes, India tops the charts in being the land where people wear the most colorful and elegant clothing as a part of the Indian culture. From the humble dhotis to the classic kurtas, from the exquisite salwar kameez to the ethnic sarees, India has the most assorted range of clothing that define the rich cultural heritage of this revered land. In this article we talk about the sarees of South India and its contribution. So, let’s know our South Indian sareesa little more!

Variety

South Indian sarees are in huge demand owing to their royal appeal and the fact that they are a lot more ornamented and vast colored than the other types of sarees made in India. Here, you should note that South India is one of the major saree weaving regions of the country. Thus, the market for these South Indian sareesis a mammoth. South India produces a varied assortment of sarees meant for the peasant, rural, urban middle class and the royal class of women. The fabrics used are mostly cotton, rayon, polyester and silk.

Different kinds of Traditional South Indian Sarees

Kanjivaram Silk Saree

The most expensive of the lot, a Kanjivaram silk sari is a must have in every Indian womens’ wardrobe. These sarees are weaved in pure silk and doused in a palette of bright colors followed by a beautification process by thread woven patterns that include intricate motifs. The Kanjivaram silk saree is a famous bridal wear in South India and is also best meant for festive occasions.

Kanjivaram Cotton Saree

Similar to the Kanjivaram silk, the kanjivaram cotton is woven out of pure cotton fabric with exquisite designs of birds, flowers, leaves and animals in vivid colored threads. These are less expensive than their silk counterparts.

Kasavu

This is a traditional saree of Kerala and is worn by women on festive occasions and marriages. The Kasavu comes in an off white color and is bordered at the edges in golden hue. This adds to the beauty of the sarees, thus making it a staple saree in the wardrobe of every bride of Kerala.

Mangalgiri Sarees

Mangalgiri, also a prominent pilgrimage is famous in producing unique Mangalgiri cotton dresses and sarees with a contrasting zari border The colours are often vibrant with a plain body and rich zari border giving it a crisp finish.

Pochampally Sari

The crafts men of the unique Ikkat – Tie & Dye sari of Pochampally belong to the Telengana region of Andhra Pradesh. These are generally available in pastel shades with contrasting hues. The complete effect on the saree is a touch of class.

Gadwal Sari

Another small town in Telengana has rich tradional values and weaving techniques. Kothakota and Gadwal developed their own style because of the patronage of the royal family of Wanaparthy and Gadwal. These brocaded sarees are woven on silk with contrasting pallu and border. The border patterns are influenced by the tradional stone carvings of that era. The mythical swan, the double headed eagle, youli – the stylish lion are some of the important motifs used on the pallu.

Jamdani / Uppada Sarees

These sarees were introduced in Uppada and are woven with a unique interlocking system. These elegant sarees are most suitable for occasional wear.

A great fashion statement

The various types of South Indian sarees cannot be mentioned within the confines of this article, but these dainty sarees are popularized the world over owing their divine appeal. With the top notch fashion designers coming up with exclusive designs of South Indian Sarees and with the film actresses flaunting their beauty in these lovely attires of 6 yards, these sarees are not only limited to the boundaries of tradition and culture but have now emerged to be a great fashion statement.

Asin wearing a kasavu saree.

Vidya balan looks best in Kanjeevaram silk saree

Veteran actress Rekha in gher signature heavy kanjeevaram silk attire

While the above describe various types of saree fabrics, there are brands like Nalli Silks that make fabulous silk sarees. Don’t forget to check out their latest designs.