Traditional Paithani Sarees from Maharashtra

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  19^thand20th 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.