Reviving the Spark of Ethnicity with Kantha Silk Sarees
Sarees are often considered the most elegant and timeless outfit in the wardrobe of an Indian woman. It is a garment that has been worn by women in India for centuries, and its popularity has only grown with time. It has a unique ability to accentuate the natural curves of a woman's body and exude a sense of grace and sophistication. Its beauty and elegance are undeniable, making it a go-to choice for special occasions such as weddings, and festivals.
In the Bengali tradition, embroidery is an integral part of saree embellishments. It adds grace and elegance to this classic garment. Bengali sarees, often made from soft cotton or silk, are adorned with delicate and intricate embroidery. Each stitch reveals the artisan's skill and creativity. The beauty of traditional embroidery on Bengali sarees is a reflection of the region's rich cultural heritage. This beautiful art has been passed down through generations. It continues to be cherished today as a symbol of grace and beauty. The intricate designs, and vibrant colors makes this Bengali saree a true masterpiece that evokes admiration and awe. One of the most popular types of embroidery used on Bengal sarees is the Kantha style, which originated in the rural villages of West Bengal.
You might have noticed a massive evolution in the production of sarees. The same holds for a Kantha stitch saree. This traditional wearable usually contains tussar silk, pure silk, or cotton. We have a lot to reveal regarding these beauty-enhancing saree types and how they stand out in the Indian market. So, let the exploration of ethnicity begin.
Many stakeholders help in the commercial scale production of Kantha silk sarees. However, nobody can handle the embroidery work better than rural craftswomen in Bolpur. They have been running this intricate work for ages. Every piece of saree requires a few weeks or months of creation, relying on the embroidery’s complexity. And that’s what determines its overall cost.
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Glancing at the Origin Of Kantha Stitch Saree
The popular Kantha style originated in West Bengal and helped pattern sarees in multiple fabric types. The word 'Kantha' in Bengali means 'patched cloth', which is what this style of embroidery originally used. It is said to have been a way for women to reuse old clothing and create new garments with intricate designs.
Bengali Kantha Sarees are believed to be practiced in rural areas. Women of Bengal would take old saris, dhotis, and other pieces of cloth, layer them together, and stitch them using a running stitch. This one-of-a-kind Kantha embroidery features a “running stitch” that requires handicrafts and the use of colored threads. This stitch creates a ripple effect on the fabric, which is one of the unique features of Kantha-style embroidery.
Motifs used in Kantha work silk sarees include flowers, birds, animals, and geometric shapes, inspired by nature. The embroidery was done using a single thread, and the colors were usually bright and vibrant. These hand-crafted embroidery and prints form the basis of sophisticated, intricate patterns. Furthermore, the Kantha work retains maximum glamor in tussar silk, Bengali cotton saree, and pure silk sarees.
Over time, Kantha embroidery evolved to include more complex designs and patterns. Today it is used in a wide range of products, including sarees, bedspreads, and cushion covers. Silk Kantha saree has become as popular as Kanchipuram silk sarees with temple borders. It is now recognized as one of the finest examples of traditional Indian embroidery.
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Embracing the Gift of Ethnic Charm
When a gorgeous Kantha stitch saree touches your body, it revives your forever-beautiful personality and attracts people’s attention. This saree type has gained recognition as a hereditary costume in India for centuries. Moreover, its super-reliable charisma and glamor remain intact even in today’s world. Women of all ages enjoy the benefits of wearing these stunning wearables on multiple Indian occasions and gatherings.
The Essential Cleaning Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore
With beauty comes responsibility. You must take utmost care of these charming sarees to maintain their luster. Here are some of the cleaning tips to consider. With beauty comes responsibility. You must take utmost care of these charming sarees to maintain their luster. Here are some of the cleaning tips to consider.
- In certain instances, a Kantha silk saree might start bleeding its color. You must soak this traditional attire in warm water containing rock salt for a minimum of 15-18 minutes.
- The washing must be done using mild liquid detergents. It is also better to avoid wringing the saree to prevent the appearance of loose threads.
- Avoid using bleach or any other harsh chemicals on your Kantha stitch saree, as they can damage delicate embroidery.
- Use a low-heat setting to iron your Kantha stitch saree to avoid damaging the embroidery. Iron the saree on the reverse side to protect the embroidery.
- Store your Kantha stitch saree in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. You can use a muslin cloth to cover the saree and protect it from dust and moisture.
