Types of Sarees in Gujarat – Some genius discovered that six yards of unstitched fabric could be made into a complete garment. He or she did not know that this outfit would become a fashion statement and transcend time. Each region of the country has at least one unique weave.
These weaves have evolved to become an art form over time. The type of textile used to make these sarees varies depending on climate, availability of raw materials and the amount of work done.
Many weaves have been around for centuries in the west of India. Craftsmen and artisans have created their own unique style, which begins with the yarn and ends at the end. These art forms are in danger today because of a lack of manpower, as well as a decline in interest to continue the craft.
These sarees are still loved by millions around the globe for their unique style and craftsmanship. These sarees can take up to a year to make. The skill and time it takes to create these exquisite sarees are enough to make their family heirlooms. Let’s look at some of the most well-known handloom sarees made in western India.
1. Bandhani sarees – Types of Sarees in Gujarat
Bandhani sarees, one of the most popular in this region, are the mainstay of Gujarati and Rajasthani crafts. Bandhni is “to tie”. This traditional tie-and-dye technique uses the cloth to be pulled with your fingernails.
Then the fabric is tied in small or large circles of dye resist depending on the desired pattern. The most popular combination is red and black, but there are many other colour options available in silk, cotton, and chiffon.
2. Patola Sarees
Patola saree, the pride of Gujarat is a double-ikat weave that creates the cream layers of the saree. The yarn is dyed in both weft and warp before it is woven. This sets the stage for the intricateness of the whole matter. Master craftsmen then lay them out with care.
A single thread can ruin the entire pattern. The saree will be more costly if it has more detailed and clear details. Although the designs are primarily geometric, other patterns like florals, animal prints and abstracts are popular as well.
3. Paithani Sarees
The Paithani, named after the Maharashtra town of Paithan, is one of the most expensive Indian sarees. It features an oblique, square design and a peacock pallu. It is basically a gold and silk saree with no cotton. It is a simple weave but kaleidoscopic colours are also very popular.
Types of Sarees in Gujarat
4. Leheriya Sarees – Types of Sarees in Gujarat
Traditional tie-and-dye from Rajasthan and Gujarat. The term leheriya comes from the word “leher”, which means waves. This complex pattern is very pleasing visually due to its distinct wave-like appearance. These are made on cotton sarees and thin silk.
They are rolled from the corners and tied at regular intervals. This traditional process uses natural dyes such as alizarin and indigo. These brightly coloured sarees can be found in many colours today and are popular among both children and the elderly.
5. Panetar Sarees
The panetar saree, which is an essential part of Jain Gujarati and Hindu weddings, is another variation of bandhani work. The bride usually receives it from her maternal uncle. She wears it at the start of the wedding ceremony.
This saree is made in silk or the shape of a Chaniya Choli. It has a white body and a red border. The white body is decorated with intricate bandhani motifs, in either green or golden. The bride looks stunning with the zari or linear stripes.
6. Chanderi Sarees
Chanderi, the drape of the royals is believed to have been created by Shishupala, Krishna’s cousin. The Chanderi saree’s transparency and glossy finish are what distinguish it. These sarees were traditionally woven on a white, beige, or black base.
Today, they are available in many other colours and combinations. Chanderi is traditionally woven in pure cotton or pure silk. However, there are many variations of cotton-silk sarees. This beautiful saree is made with floral art, geometric prints, and peacocks.
Types of Sarees in Gujarat
7. Maheshwari Sarees – Types of Sarees in Gujarat
The beautiful Maheshwari weave was born in Madhya Pradesh’s small town of Maheshwar. It flourished under Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar’s patronage. The nine-yard silk scarf is a visual representation of the splendour of Madhya Pradesh’s forts, palaces, and temples.
Popular designs include the mat (also known as the ‘chatai pattern) and ‘chameli-ka phool’. These sarees continue to incorporate classic patterns like the ‘eent (brick), and the ‘heera (diamond). Because of their lightweight and glossy finish, these beautiful weaves are very popular.
8. Gharchola
Gharchola literally means “homeware”. This is not the correct term as these sarees can be considered “home wear”, and are preferred by Rajasthani and Gujarati brides due to their bright colours and zari work.
They are usually made in the auspicious colours of red and green, but can also be distinguished by their unique grid pattern. A typical Ghar Chola is made from 12 squares (also known as bar baghor) or 52 squares (also called Bhavan-bhag). The bandhani patterns are repeated throughout the length of the saree by each check being tied and dyed.
Types of Sarees in Gujarat
9. Gujarati Brocade Sarees – Types of Sarees in Gujarat
These beautiful sarees are almost extinct and authentic Gujarati Brocade is very rare. These sarees, made from silk, are characterized by circular buti designs that run along the length of the saree. They were the first to use inlay work and often have leaves, flowers, and stems that are outlined with a fine dark line. This gives the flowers a royal appearance.
10. Khari and Tinsel Embroidery Sarees
These sarees are a symbol of the identity of prominent ethnic groups such as the Abaris and Sodharajputs. They have also become a popular choice for women. These sarees were once made from silk, velvet, and brocade fabrics. Today, however, these materials are replaced by zari. These sarees are also known as Roghan in Saurashtra, Roghan in Kutch and Khari in Surat. Their metallic work gives them a stunning three-dimensional effect.
Types of Sarees in Gujarat