Introduction to Paithani
Silk Sarees
Described as a poem in silk and gold, the traditional Paithani silk sarees that originated in
the small town of Paithan in Maharastra are one of the most ancient, most
opulent and the finest silk sarees of the country. Coveted sarees, Paithani sarees from Maharashtra are
not just sarees but a precious heirloom to be passed on from one generation to
the other, pretty much like antique jewelry. Also referred to as ‘the Mahavastra’ , the motifs and designs on this royal saree
are inspired by sculptures and paintings found in the Ajanta and Ellora caves
and adorned in golden brocade.Oblique Square designed borders and enchanting
motifs like peacock, parrot, swan, chakra and flowers feature these sarees.
Born to appeal the refined tastes of royalty in Maharashtra in olden days, Paithani silk sarees charm the women world
over even today with their rich colors, their fine silk, their sumptuous weave and
their generous real brocade work. Even today, a Maharashtrian wedding is incomplete
without a Paithani saree as the
bride’s wedding trousseau.
History of Paithani Sarees
The art of weaving Paithani sarees is more than 2000 years old that started in the rule of the legendary Satavahanas in the ancient city of Pratishthan, the current day Paithanin Maharashtra.So renowned was the rich artistry of the Paithani sarees that got made here that Paithan became the international trade centre for silk and zari and its exquisite silk got exported to many countries and was traded in return for gold and precious stones. Paithani sarees from Maharashtra not only survived the many changing rulersin the past but flourished under their patronage as they cherished these sarees and brought in a lot of novelty in their making, their designs and motifs. For example, during the 17th century, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb patronized Paithani Silk sarees by introducing a new motif called Aurangzebi. During 19thand20th centuries, the Nizams of Hyderabad who ordered large quantities of Paithani silk sarees were responsible for introducing the parinda motif. Later the Peshwas of Pune with their special love for Paithani sarees took these sarees to new heights.
The art of weaving Paithani sarees is more than 2000 years old that started in the rule of the legendary Satavahanas in the ancient city of Pratishthan, the current day Paithanin Maharashtra.So renowned was the rich artistry of the Paithani sarees that got made here that Paithan became the international trade centre for silk and zari and its exquisite silk got exported to many countries and was traded in return for gold and precious stones. Paithani sarees from Maharashtra not only survived the many changing rulersin the past but flourished under their patronage as they cherished these sarees and brought in a lot of novelty in their making, their designs and motifs. For example, during the 17th century, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb patronized Paithani Silk sarees by introducing a new motif called Aurangzebi. During 19thand20th centuries, the Nizams of Hyderabad who ordered large quantities of Paithani silk sarees were responsible for introducing the parinda motif. Later the Peshwas of Pune with their special love for Paithani sarees took these sarees to new heights.
Traditional Colors
and Motifs in Paithani Silk Sarees
The most distinguished feature of authentic Paithani sarees is that the reverse of
the weave is an exact replica of the front design. This means that the reverse
of the sari has as impeccable a finish as the front, void of any loose threads.
Paithani saree collections sport varied
vibrant colors. While some of the colors are pure, some result from the
blending of different colored yarns in the weave. Usually the pallu and the
border sport a contrast color that generally stand out. Some of the popular
colors used for Paithani sarees are
peach-pink called aboli in the native language, White with red and pale green
called Firozi, Gujri is the black and white blend while orphankhi is the green
and blue blend; Blue called Neeligunji and purple called vangi meaning brinjal
are very popular.The darker shades of red, green, blue and yellow are popular
and fast moving.
Under the patronage of various rulers, Paithani silk sarees in corporated may new
motifs and designs over the years. The oldest traditional designs in Paithanisare
theVine and Flowers called Asavali and the floral motifs called akruti. While
mor or the peacock design have become synonym with Paithani sarees, there are
other common designs that these sarees sport like the petal design called
kalasPakli, the Pankha or fan, Narali meaning Cocountand cotton bud called
Ruiphul in Marathi. Some of the Mughal inspired motifs, the bangdimor meaning
peacock in a bangle, the Totamaina, the Pomegranate flower called as Anarvel
and the BehestiParinda meaning the bird of paradise can also be seen on these
sarees.
Paithani Sarees
Online at Shatika
Paithani sarees collections are one of the most popular and fast moving categories at
Shatika. Paithani sarees online shopping
at Shatika is not just a regular with Maharashtrians but with women the world
over.With a wide range of colors, patterns and designs, at Shatika, it is now
possible to buy Paithani sarees online
without worrying about their authenticity and genuinty.
