My Love Affair with Handlooms of India: From Sambalpuri to Rangkat Saree

Handlooms are a significant part of India’s rich cultural heritage. Every state of India has its unique handloom, weaving technique, and designs that are an ode to its history and culture. Being a proud Indian, I have always been fascinated by the beauty and versatility of handlooms. I own a collection of handloom sarees, and each one has a story to tell. In this article, I will share my love affair with handlooms of India, from Sambalpuri to Rangkat saree.

Sambalpuri saree:

Sambalpuri saree, an exquisite handloom saree from Odisha, is renowned for its intricate weaves and traditional motifs. The first time I laid my eyes on this piece of art was when I saw my mother adorning it, and I was spellbound by its beauty. The texture and the elegant look that the saree exuded was something that left me mesmerized, and ever since that day, I have been captivated by the Sambalpuri saree. Over time, I have collected several of these sarees, and being an Odia and working in the Odisha Handloom industry gives me a deeper understanding and appreciation of the craftsmanship that goes into each saree. The Sambalpuri saree is truly a timeless masterpiece that continues to amaze and captivate people all over the world.

Bomkai saree:

Bomkai saree is an intricate handloom saree from Odisha that has always caught my eye. This saree is created using extra-weft techniques that result in stunning motifs adorning its body. I still remember the day when I wore a Bomkai saree to a wedding and was showered with compliments on its beauty and elegance. It was a moment of pride for me to display my culture and heritage through this unique weave. My mother also shares my fascination for the Bomkai saree, and together we have collected several pieces in our collection. The level of intricacy and complexity involved in weaving a Bomkai saree is inspiring and makes it an invaluable asset that can be cherished for generations. This saree is a genuine representation of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and its weaving traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Dolabedi saree:

Dolabedi saree is a new weave inspired by the Dola festival, which is celebrated a day before Holi in Odisha. The handloom sector in Odisha is known for its diverse range of ikats and extra-weft sarees, and the Dolabedi saree is a fine addition to this collection. The saree’s intricate weaving patterns, delicate borders, and vibrant colors make it stand out. The Dolabedi design is distinguished by its dola patterns that adorn the saree’s palla. These sarees are primarily made of pure mulberry silk, which is renowned for its luster, durability, and elegance. The 4-ply count ensures the saree’s longevity and quality. The saree’s body features multicolored butas, and the pallu is vibrant and colorful, showcasing motifs such as turtles, parrots, and chariots. The contrast between the plain body and the colorful pallu creates a regal look, making it perfect for special occasions. I love the soft texture of the Dolabedi saree, and it drapes beautifully on the body. I own a cerulean blue with a black combination Dolabedi silk saree that is an absolute delight to wear.

Khandua saree:

Khandua saree is a popular handloom saree from Odisha that is well-known for its intricate designs and traditional motifs. The unique color combinations and intricate weaves of the Khandua saree have always fascinated me, making it stand out from other handloom sarees. I am particularly drawn to the saree’s stunning designs and colors, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. I have accumulated multiple Khandua silk sarees in my personal collection as one simply can’t have just one. Each saree is a piece of art that is carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans using the finest quality silk. The Khandua saree is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the weavers of Odisha, and its timeless beauty makes it a valuable addition to any saree collection.

Banarasi saree:

Banarasi saree is a magnificent handloom saree from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, renowned for its intricate zari work and designs. Every time I come across a Banarasi saree, I am reminded of the rich history and culture that is woven into its fabric. I have always been fascinated by the exquisite designs and intricate patterns on the Banarasi saree, which make it stand out among other handloom sarees. In my personal collection, I have accumulated multiple Banarasi sarees in deep maroon, black, green, yellow colors with beautiful zari work. Each saree is a masterpiece of skilled artisans, who spend months weaving intricate designs with precious metal threads. The Banarasi saree is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among saree enthusiasts.

Ilkal saree:

Ilkal saree is a stunning handloom saree from Karnataka, renowned for its striking borders and pallu designs. What sets the Ilkal saree apart is its unique weaving technique, where the saree’s body and pallu are woven separately and then joined together. I am in love with how the Ilkal saree drapes gracefully, accentuating the curves of the body, and the unique patterns and designs on its borders and pallu make it stand out from other handloom sarees. I own a beautiful Ilkal saree in lemon green and blue colors, which I wore to a family function, and it made me feel elegant and graceful. The saree’s distinctive design garnered me many compliments, making it a perfect addition to my saree collection. The Ilkal saree is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and rich weaving traditions of Karnataka and is a must-have for saree enthusiasts.

Maheshwari saree:

Maheshwari sarees are a stunning handloom saree from Madhya Pradesh that I find captivating. The beautiful geometric designs and bright colors of the saree make it a unique addition to any wardrobe. I appreciate how the Maheshwari saree adds a pop of vibrancy to any outfit, elevating its elegance. I own a beautiful blue Maheshwari saree that I wore to an event, and I was showered with compliments on the saree’s unique design and bright colors. The Maheshwari saree is crafted from fine cotton and silk yarns and is lightweight and easy to drape. The delicate and intricate designs are woven into the saree, giving it a unique texture and visual appeal. The saree’s distinctiveness and versatility make it a must-have in any saree collection.

Kanchipuram saree:

Kanchipuram saree, a renowned handloom saree from Tamil Nadu, is famous for its intricate zari work and designs. The saree’s versatility in designs and patterns has evolved over the years, making it a highly sought-after choice for special occasions. The Kanchipuram saree in multicolor and gold colors is a masterpiece that I own, and I love its intricate design and soft fabric. The saree drapes elegantly and adds a regal touch to any attire. The Kanchipuram saree’s distinctive features, including its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and unique weaving technique, make it a treasured possession that can be passed down through generations. The skilled artisans put their heart and soul into every piece, making each Kanchipuram saree a work of art that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Pochampalli saree:

The Pochampalli saree is a distinctive handloom saree from Telangana, known for its striking ikat designs and vibrant colors. What sets the Pochampalli saree apart from other handloom sarees is its boldness and statement-making qualities. The saree’s unique design adds a pop of color and a touch of boldness to any outfit, making it perfect for special occasions. I have two Pochampalli sarees in my collection, one in shades of blue and pink and the other in bold red. When I wear these sarees, I feel confident and bold, and I love how the saree accentuates my curves. The Pochampalli saree is truly a work of art, and it is amazing to see how the weavers have been able to maintain the saree’s traditional designs and patterns over the years.

Rajkot Patola:

Linen saree:

The Linen saree is a handloom saree made from lightweight linen fabric, known for its soft and breathable texture. The way the Linen saree drapes beautifully and provides comfort, makes it perfect for summer weddings and events. I own a Linen saree in a beautiful shade of orange, featuring a simple yet elegant design that has a minimalistic touch to it. The saree’s soft texture and understated design made it a perfect choice for the occasion. The Linen saree has gained popularity due to its versatility and the ease of maintaining it. Its fabric is breathable and comfortable to wear, making it a go-to option for a variety of occasions. Overall, the Linen saree is an elegant and comfortable addition to any wardrobe, perfect for those who prefer a minimalistic yet chic style.

Rangkat saree:

I spent a fortune making this saree. Will not be able to share the open pics as i am saving this saree for a special occasion. The Rangkat saree is a handloom saree that holds a special place in my heart as I designed and collaborated with my favorite weaver in Banaras to create it. The creation of the Rangkat saree was a challenging task, and my weaver was initially hesitant to take up the project, claiming that it was impossible. However, I persisted, and after waiting for almost a year and a half, my weaver finally produced the saree. The Rangkat saree is a beautiful blend of Katan silk Banarasi and Khdhwa weaving, and the intricate details and unique design make it one of my most treasured sarees in my collection. Its creation is a testament to the power of persistence and collaboration in achieving one’s goals.

At the end, Handloom sarees are not just mere garments, but they embody our rich cultural heritage and reflect the extraordinary craftsmanship of our weavers. Each handloom saree in my collection holds a special place in my heart as it tells a unique story. These sarees are not just a fashion accessory, but they are an integral part of our cultural identity and legacy. Owning a handloom saree is not just a matter of preference, but it is a matter of pride and respect for our artisans. The intricate designs, vibrant colors, and exquisite textures of handloom sarees have the power to captivate and enchant. Handloom sarees are a symbol of our country’s diversity and a reflection of our roots, and I consider it an honor to wear and preserve them.

PS: I have Some more weaves in my collection. However that is for another post. Stay tuned and support my small business. Thank you So much Loves for reading. Please Do not use my pictures without my permission. These are my personal collection and not for sale.