Ikkat Silk Sarees from Orissa: History & Heritage | itokri

A saree is a traditional Indian garment that has a dedicated fan base for itself. When draped, a saree can accentuate your personality and turn you into a head-turner whenever you step out. 

When we talk about different types of Indian sarees, it is difficult to not fall in love with each of them, because different types of sarees in India have unique cultural aspects attributed to them. If we were to look at the history of sarees, we would find that they are an embodiment of our rich heritage and have continued to be a cherished piece of clothing for women across generations. 

Origin Of Saree

If one were to talk about the origin of sarees, we shall be taken back to the Indus Valley Civilization all the way back to 2800 BCE. (1) The earliest known accounts of Sari-like drapery involve the use of cotton fabrics and natural dyes for colour. With time, the versatility of this garment has been fully harnessed and it has emerged as an elegant fashion choice for women. 

The place and popularity of sarees across the international fashion scene cannot be underestimated. Over the years, we have seen global celebrities adorning immaculate sarees at major events. So let us take a look at some of the most popular Indian sarees. 

You Might Like Reading:

15 Celebrities That Will Make You Invest In A Silk Sari

Different Types Of Indian Sarees Across Regions

Here is a look at some of the most well-known Indian sarees, that you can try out at the next formal event. 

Sarees From North India

North India is a land of abundance and natural bounties. The North Indian saree style comprises many different types of sarees such as Chikankari sarees from Lucknow, Tanchoi sarees from Varanasi, Kota Doria sarees from Rajasthan, Kashmiri silk sarees, Jamawar sarees, Phulkari sarees from Punjab and the excellent Banarasi sarees from Varanasi. If you want to add any of these North Indian sarees to your wardrobe, we suggest you check out iTokri. 

Sarees From Gujarat

The most famous sarees from Gujarat are the Patola sarees and the Bandhani sarees. Apart from that Gharchola sarees and Patan patola sarees from Gujarat are also very popular for their traditional appeal. Gujarat is famous for its rich artistic and cultural heritage and therefore sarees from Gujarat tell a compelling tale of the state’s amazing heritage. 

Sarees from Maharashtra

Marathi sarees are known for their excellent weaving technique and raping styles. The Paithani sarees are amongst the most popular Marathi-style sarees. The traditional Marathi drape is called the Nauvari saree, where a nine-yard saree is draped like a dhoti. 

Sarees From South India

South India prides itself on having rich creative and artistic traditions that the region has preserved and practiced over centuries. The famous South Indian saree style can be recreated with the help of Pochampally Ikat sarees from Telangana, Gadwal sarees from

Andhra Pradesh, Mysore silk sarees from Karnataka, Kanjeevaram silk sarees from Tamil Nadu, and various other styles. 

Sarees From Bengal 

Sarees from Bengal are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and keen attention to detail. The famous sarees from this region include Garad sarees, Jamdani sarees, Kantha sarees, Baluchari sarees, etc. Around the time of Durga Pooja, many celebrities can be spotted wearing gorgeous Bengali sarees. 

You Might Like Reading:

Jamdani Sarees Ideas- How Can You Donne The Traditional Bengali Weave?

• Sarees From Odisha
  
  

Odisha is also widely celebrated for its alluring sarees that are a personification of the state’s rich heritage. Famous sarees from the state include Bomkai sarees, Pasapalli sarees, and Sambalpuri sarees. The majority of these sarees are made using natural dyes and traditional techniques that make Odisha sarees a preferred choice for formal occasions. 

You Might Like Reading:

Ikkat Silk Sarees from Orissa - Their Glorious History

• Sarees From North East India
  
  

The vibrant culture and stunning natural landscape of North East India make it a crown jewel of our nation. The North Indian sarees are a perfect example of the rich heritage of this state. Some of the famous North Indian sarees are Manipuri silk sarees, Muga silk sarees, Eri silk sarees, Naga shawl sarees, and many more. The unique designs, distinct colour palette, and precise craftsmanship make North East sarees a valuable addition to your ethnic wardrobe. 

You Might Like Reading:

How to Store Silk Sarees
7 Silk Sarees under 3000 you MUST have in your ethnic wardrobeFAQ: Silk Sarees

Conclusion 

The journey through the lanes of the Indian states has been quite fulfilling as we got to explore the grace of Chikankari sarees, the beauty of Jamdani and Banarasi sarees, the perky vibrancy of Bandhani sarees, the delicacy of Kanjeevaram sarees and much more. From the gorgeous saree of Gujarat to the stunning sarees of Kolkata, India is a melting pot of amazing creative and textile endowments from different states. No matter if you are a saree connoisseur who loves collecting different hand-woven sarees or someone who wants to experiment with a saree for the first time, all the different types of Indian sarees will afford you a chance to try out something that appeals to your heart and body. So, if you have been planning to buy a saree for yourself or any of your loved ones, we suggest you check out the praiseworthy collection on iTokri your favourite Indian Handloom store online, to make a befitting choice.