Kanchipuram: Everything you want to know about The City of Silk

Kanchipuram, a city nested in the southern state of Tamil Nadu stands as one of the most ancient cities of India. From being the ancient Chola Kingdom’s capital during the 2nd century to being conquered by the Mughals in the 17th century and ruled by the British in the 18th century, it served as a prominent pilgrim centre and commerce hub. Even today, this city is carrying the legacy of architectural heritage through thousands of temples. In addition to being a sacred city, the land of Kanchipuram Tamil Nadu is blessed with highly skilled weavers from the community of Devangas and the Pattu Saliyar making it a ‘city of silk’. This is the eponymous of the finest silk saree in the world. So let’s see what makes this Kanjivaram saree origin point so captivating and earns it so much fame.

Kancheepuram, The City of Silk

Image Credit:- Travel Blog

The silk sarees weaved in this town are known as Kanchipuram or Kanjeevaram sarees worldwide. Kanchipuram sarees are known for their timeless beauty and have a special place in women’s hearts. With the blend of thick silk fabric, gold zari border and vibrant shades, Kanjeevaram sarees carry a dignified look and make it the queen of all sarees. 

The most elaborate part of this 6-yard is its Pallu which is woven separately and interlinked with the saree beautifully with the zig-zag pattern known as ‘Pitini’. These sarees are produced with 3-4 strands of Silk threads which makes them heavier than usual sarees. The motifs and patterns of Kanchipuram weaving are inspired by mythological stories, temple figurines and Tamil literature. In Indian culture, every fabric has its own historical significance and so is Kanchipuram sarees which we will explore further. 

History of Origin of the Kanchipuram Saree

The roots of  Kanjivaram saree history can be traced back to Hindu mythology as the fabric’s first mention can be found in the books written by Sanskrit grammarian Patanjali. The origin of this beautiful piece of cloth is said to be associated with Sage Markanda, who used to be weavers for Gods. It is to be believed that his descendants- Devangas and Saligars came all the way from Andhra Pradesh and relocated to the town of Kanchipuram at the invitation of King Raja Raja Chola. With their weaving skills and enchanting patterns of the Kanchipuram temples, they crafted worldwide famous Kanjeevaram sarees. Thus, the Kanchi silk saree is embellished with a rich heritage which is more than 400 years old. 

Kanchipuram Saree was Awarded the GI Tag by Govt. of India

The GI tag, also called Geographical Indication Certification, is a kind of intellectual property right given to a product. GI-tagged products claimed to be produced in a specific geographical area. And it possesses all the features or reputations closely linked to that area. 

Kanchipuram silk has also fallen into the category of GI products. It was awarded this certificate in 2005-06. As per the tag, the original Kancheepuram saree should be made of 57 per cent silver and 0.6 per cent of gold zari work. However, the Tamil Nadu government facilitated the weavers with ease of silver work to 40 per cent and 0.5 per cent gold. 

Temples and Architectural Art of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu

Image Credit :- Holidify

Besides being famous as the city of silk, Kanchipuram is also popular among pilgrims as a land of thousand temples. With the flourishing of the dynasty, every ruler added architectural art through its religious places. With detailed stone carvings, magnificent temple shrines, and taller towers on the sanctum, everything about temples is pleasing to the eyes and soul. On a religious basis, this town has three sections- Jain, Shiva and Vishnu Kanchi. It houses one of the 51 Shakti Peethas Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple, Pancha Bhoota Stalam- Ekambareswarar Temple, 108 Divya Desams- Varadharaja Perumal, Ulagalanthar Perumal Temple, Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, Pandavathoothar Perumal, and Temple Jain temple- Trilokinath. 

Silk Tourism 

Apart from temples, the silk industry of Kanchipuram  also allures a number of tourists every year. This town has more than 25 silk yarn industries open their doors, inviting curious travellers to witness the mesmerizing journey of production. Besides witnessing this production process, tourists love to buy Kanjeevaram sarees from their origin point. Majorly would-be brides buy Kanchi sarees as Indian weddings cannot be complete without this saree in trouse. The revenue generated from silk tourism serves as a lifeline for the weaver community.

You can also explore silk fabric online on iTokri,

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In the End

Kanchipuram is a captivating fusion of culture, silk and devotion. Here, you can cherish history and culture temples and the handloom silk industry. These temples and sarees are carrying our heritage from generation to generation. It needs to be protected at any cost and iTokri, your favourite online Indian handloom store is consistently putting efforts in this direction. With the authenticity of the city of silk, on iTokri you can discover a grand range of Kanchi silk fabric and sarees that would add value to your wardrobe. 

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs on Kanchipuram, the City of Silk

Which place is called the City of Silk?

Kanchipuram town situated in Tamil Nadu is popularly known as the  city of silk owing to its fine quality of silk. 

Where is Kanchipuram?

Kanchipuram is nested in Tamil Nadu, the southern state of India. It is situated on the bank of the Palar River approximately 72 kilometers away from Chennai in the southwest direction. 

Is Kanchipuram silk and Kanjivaram silk the same?

Yes, Kanchipuram silk and kanjivaram silk are the same products. Kanjivaram silk and sarees are famous with different terms like  Kanchipuram, Kanjivaram, Kanchi saree, and  Kanjeevaram. 

How do you maintain Kanchipuram silk sarees?

To take care of your Kanchipuram silk saree dry cleaning is mandatory and try to give cleaning intervals in 2-3 uses. Try to air the saree as much as possible and iron the unfolds after every use. Try spot cleaning for dirty stains either through plain water or solvent-dabbed cotton. 

What makes Kanchipuram silk special?

The contrast design between the border and pallu makes it alluring. However, its main feature is the pallu which is weaved separately but interlinked with the saree. Further, its heavy fabric, zari work, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors make it stunning. 

How can you tell if Kanchipuram silk is pure?

The fabric of the Kanchi saree is soft and has a genuine sheen. After rubbing, the saree should feel warmer for a few seconds and the fabric should not be coarser. Pallu and border would be heavier than the rest of the saree in pure Kanchipuram saree.  To check you can scrap zari work a little bit; if you see red threads then the saree is pure, otherwise not. You can also go for GI tags to check the authenticity of the  Kanjivaram saree origin.