Madhubani Paintings – Some Interesting Facts about Madhubani Sarees

One of the finest art forms in India’s rich artistic culture, Madhubani painting has its roots in the Mithila region of Bihar. An art form that originated in the times of Ramayana by Raja Janak, the father of deviSita and the then king of Mithila, it is practiced by classical artists in three forms, wall-painting (bhittichitra), canvas painting (patachitra) and floor painting(aripana)and is the cultural identity of Bihar. While the styles of paintings have been changing from generation to generation, Madhubani paintings generally depict the figures of deities, Gods, elements in nature, humans and animals as well as some geometrical shapes. Designs on Madhubani handloom sarees are characterized by vibrant colors, mythological theme with underlying symbolism and traditional geometric patterns supporting the theme.Recognized worldwide, madhubani sarees have succeeded in creating a place for themselves in the international house of fame. So it’s only appropriate to know more about this incredible art form more.

Interesting Facts about Madhubani Paintings:

• The origin of Madhubani painting is related to the famous ‘Sita Kalyan’. It is said that King Janaka, father of Sita, commissioned several artists to create paintings on the occasion of his daughter’s marriage to Lord Ram.
• Madhubani paintings are known to prevent deforestation! How, you may ask -the artists of this region draw Madhubani paintings depicting Hindu deities on the trees so people restrain from cutting them down out of reverence.
• An art that originated to adorn mud walls of houses that were freshly plastered and mainly done by rural women of Bihar, today Madhubani paintings adorn canvases, cushions, paper and even cloths including sarees.
• The brush used for Madhubani paintings is made of cotton and wrapped around on a bamboo stick.

• Natural dyes are used for coloring. Eg: Black color is made by adding soot to cow dung and yellow color is obtained by combining turmeric with the milk of banyan leaves.
• A double line is drawn for outlines and the gap is filled with either cross or straight tiny lines. In Madhubani, there is no shading in the application of colors.
• Madhubani paintings depict mythological scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata and deities such as Krishna, Rama, Lakshmi, Shiva, Durga, Ganesha and Saraswati.
• Royal court scenes and weddings also find their way in these paintings.
• It includes simple geometric patterns and even plant and animal forms including birds, fish and the very popular ‘tree of life’as aesthetic fillers.
• Owing to its popularity, today, many exclusive art galleries for Madhubani paintings can be found in India and around the world in countries like Japan.

Image Courtesy:
http://bit.ly/2jz4Ynd
http://bit.ly/2zES11O

Saree Draping Styles of Assam

Muga Silk Saree:

A symbol of opulence, dexterity and style, Muga silk saree from Assam is a sari that has a tradition of centuries. Silk weaving is one of the prime industries in Assam and the business of weaving muga silk sarees spans generations. A humble looking cream-coloured variety of silk, itis a purest form of silk and is one of the costliest in the world. A high-quality silk, the most unique feature of muga silk is that it can never be dyed as it never absorbs any colour and hence retains the creamish shade. Its beauty is that the sheen of the sari enhances with age.

Traditional Assamese Mekhala Chadar:

Traditionally, the bridal saree in Assam is a two-piece called ‘Mekhala Chadar’. There is also a third piece called ‘reeha’, which is worn on special occasions like pujas, weddings and festivals as a mark of respect. In modern times, Mekhala Chadar style has been tweaked a little and is worn as any six yard saree popularly known as muga silk sari.

Bridal muga silk saree:

Bridal muga silk sarees come with heavy thread work. A single sari with thread work motifs takes nearly a week or 10 days to finish. Traditional motifs used on muga silk saris include Jappi (the typical Assami topi), Miri Gos Butta (a pattern of miniature tree motifs) and kabutar (pigeons). These motifs are always geometrical in shape and have not changed in years. Caught on with the trend, so popular are these motifs that they are now being adopted in other states and textile crafts.

Kaziranga sari:

Kaziranga saree is a casual wear and bears motifs of the one-horn rhinoceros and mostly it is done on pure cottons or silk blends.

The price of  muga silk starts from Rs.10,000 and goes up to Rs. 50,000!The reason they are so expensive is because the silk is extracted from cocoons of 'Antheraea Assamensis', the silk worm that is available only in Assam. One Kg of muga silk costs around Rs.13,000. Thus these sarees are exorbitantly priced but due to their high quality standards and features like rich golden hue, natural luster, resilience and strength and durability that is known to outlast the wearer, they are certainly worth their price.

Image courtesy:
http://bit.ly/2jqPktU
http://bit.ly/2kdWNis
http://bit.ly/2n7QnUF
http://bit.ly/2ABWQgQ

Handloom Silk Sarees – Indian Festivals

Festive season in India calls for bright colored sarees and other traditional outfits complemented by striking pieces of jewelry that make for conversation starters at every function. But going by the trends in handloom sarees today, buyers appear to be torn between contemporary crepes and traditional silk weaves that are heirloom pieces.While both have their own charm, here is why traditional handloom silk sarees rule the roost during festivals:

Timeless Designs:

Various weaves of Handloom silk sarees from across the country showcase traditional artistic motifs like peacocks, paisleys, elephants, leaf, flowers, gods and goddesses etc.that are embellished in rich zari threads exuding exquisite appeal that is unmatched.

Changing trends:

Traditional weaves are known to keep pace with the changing trends.In sync with the current fashion without losing out on their traditional charm, they are modern classic pieces that combine cutting edge silhouettes with quality craftsmanship thus combining the best of both worlds and in turn do not run out of fashion ever.

Continuing the Legacy:
Owning these traditional weaves is like being a part of heritage as it adds value to your assets. Considered as heir loom pieces, silk sarees carry on the legacy during festivals and weddings.

How to remove stains from silk sarees:
Donot despair over a potential loss of your favorite silk garment because of some stains because here we bring you some tips where just by gathering a few household items, you can get rid of those tough stains

To remove sweat stains:
To remove sweat stains from a silk saree, one can use vinegar. Mix Vinegar and water in equal parts, dab it on the stain and then rinse with warm water.

To remove coffee or tea stains:
To remove coffee or tea stains, first sponge the area with lukewarm water and then gently rub glycerine over it. Wait for half an hour and then rinse the area with warm water.

To remove oil stains:
To remove oil stains from the silk saree, use talcum powder. Sprinkle the powder and let it stay for around 20 minutes. Brush away the excess powder off the fabric.

image courtesy:
http://bit.ly/2A3Aynu
http://bit.ly/2A3LIbi
http://bit.ly/2iLMy36

Muga Silk Sarees – The traditional wear of Assam Women

A silk that glitters like Gold, Muga silk from Assam is world’s costliest silk. Nature’s wonderful gift that is extracted from a species of worm not to be found anywhere but in the North Eastern region of India, Muga Silk Sarees are truly the pride of Assam.

The gorgeous fabric, known for its extreme durability and natural yellowish-golden tint, is extracted from semi-domesticated silk worm called Aantheraea asamenisis. Antheraea assamensis are raised outdoors primarily on Som and Soalu trees.

The silk obtained is called muga, the Assamese word for the rich amber colour of the cocoon. The muga cocoon has a very weak peduncle and is golden yellow. Due to its color and its price, it is often compared to the precious metal.

A time taking process, weaving of a muga silk saree takes anywhere between 10 days to couple of months. Imperishable, the saree of the fabric is known to last a lifetime with its shine getting better with each wash!

Popular traditional motifs seen on a muga saree includes Jappi which is inspired from a typical Assamitopi, Miri Gos Butta inspired from a pattern of miniature tree motifs and kabutar or pigeons. These motifs are always geometrical in shape and have not changed in ages.

Muga silk was once reserved only for royalty which was adorned in pure zari to make it more grand and more attractive. Even today, Muga silk is perfectly adorned in rich embroidery and zari work to give it a very royal and classy feel. Over the years, it has managed to gain popularity as a coveted saree for weddings and special occasions.

Image courtesy:
http://bit.ly/2jhyP3g
http://bit.ly/2iIIJLU
http://bit.ly/2mWqdnV

Stylish Ethnic Saree Choices for the Modern Women

Manushi Chillar, an Indian model and beauty queen who was recently crowned Miss World 2017, once again proved on an international platform that Indian beauty is all about a perfect balance of beauty and brains. While she looked amazing in every appearance at this international pageant, traditional outfits ranging from a lehenga choli to saree drapes including the stylish baby pink tulle saree by Manish Malhotra brought out the best in her personality.

Infact, Bollywood divas have made their presence felt on the Cannes red carpet time and again in drapes. While one has seen a flurry of Ralph & Russo gowns, a bit of Roberto Cavalli and a little Dolce & Gabbana too, there is no denying that there’s nothing like a sari spotting among the pool of trails and couture gowns, at the French Riviera. Including likes of Aishwarya Rai, Nandita Das and Vidya Balan to the younger brigade like Soman Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, they have all sashayed in their handloom sarees in international events and grabbed eyeballs.

Saree though considered an ethnic wear, is able to give out a regal vibe in today’s modern times depending on its fabric, texture, design and make.

Some of the stylish ethnic saree choices for the modern women today are:

1. Linen Silk Sarees
2. Mysore Chiffon Sarees
3. Georgette silk sarees
4. Crepe silk sarees
5. OrganzaSarees
6. Leheriya Sarees
7. Jute Silk Sarees
8. Muga Silk Sarees
9. Khadi Silk Sarees
10. Chanderi Sarees

And some handloom silk sarees that depict the splendid Indian art such as:

1. Kalamkari Sarees
2. Chikankari Sarees
3. Madhubani Sarees
4. Kantha Sarees
5. Rajasthani Hand Embroidery Sarees

Image courtesy:
http://bit.ly/2zuX0WW
http://bit.ly/2jVb5Gs
http://bit.ly/2A6VCXu
http://bit.ly/2ApbEyZ