Handloom Sarees of Andhrapradesh

Diverse Weaves of Andhra Pradesh

Laden with talent, Andhra Pradesh is known for handloom work. The state that has maximum number of weaving clusters in the country, the weavers here are known to manufacture exclusive sarees with intricate and distinctive designs. The tradition of weaving is an age-old profession of the state and this countless years of experience reflects in the sarees woven here that are not only most exquisite but generically and uniquely designed. There are many unique styles of weaves that come from the looms of this state that are worn by women all over the country. As the sarees get their names from the place they are woven at, the variety of sarees that are churned out from Andhra Pradesh are Pochampalli, Gadwal, Venkatagiri, Dharmavaram, Narayanpet, Mangalgirietc. These places in the state are very popular for their handloom cotton and handloom silk sarees all over the country.

Gadwal Sarees:

Gadwal is a popular center of traditional sarees in Andhra Pradesh. Stylish yet graceful, these sarees are quite unique for in these sarees, the sari body is made from cotton while silk is used in its border and pallu. Mango motifs are predominantly used in the sari designs. A mix and match of vibrant and festive colors like yellow, beige, parrot green and pink adorn these sarees. The most popular weave among all the weaves from Andhra Pradesh, these sarees from Gadwal are also referred to as the queen of sarees of Andhra Pradesh. Weft designs are particularly used in these saris that use interlocked design referred to as “Kupadam” or “Tippatiamu”. Temple motifs referred to as “Kotakomma” or “Kutabham” is used on the sari border and these sarees are specially worn during pujas. Festivities and religious events are incomplete without these sarees in Andhra Pradesh.

Narayanpet Sarees:

Bordering around Karnataka, sarees from Narayanpetin Andhra Pradesh bear lot of resemblance with sarees from Karnataka. Dark and earthy colors adorn these sarees that are made in silk and cotton. Eye catching patterns and intricate borders woven in dark shades like maroon, dark red or chocolate brown are very popular.

Pochampally Sarees:

Ikat weaving is one of the most popular handloom weaving styles in Andhra Pradesh that is mainly practiced in Pochampally. Using tie and die techniques in yarn, Pochampally sarees are made from yarns that are first dyed and then woven to make unique geometric designs in brilliant colors. Cotton, silk cotton and silk, all three varieties are popular in this weave.

Venkatgiri Sarees:

In silk and cotton, Venkatagiri saris are woven with pure silver zari and brocade designs in the border. The graceful strains of gold can be found all over the sari. These saris come in pleasing colours and they showcase dainty zari motif slike golden dots, leaves, parrots or even geometric designs.

Dharmavaram Sarees:

Broad borders with solid colors and contrasting pallus woven with intricate golden zari brocade characterize Dharmavaram sarees.Woven in interlock-weft technique, these sarees in silk and cotton are characterized by their softness and strength and are the most attractive and desired wedding sarees.

Mangalgiri Sarees:

A great compilation of exemplary designs, superior silk and exuberant color combinations, Mangalgiri Silk Sarees are woven in silk, silk cotton as well as pure cotton. Traditionally woven on pit loom from combed yarn by warp and weft interlacing, these sarees come in characteristic Nizamborders.

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