NARAYANPET SAREES

This weave comes from Narayanpet, a quintessential sleepy hamlet in Telangana, 165 kms from Hyderabad. It dates back to 1630 AD when Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a Marathi emperor, travelled across this region and set up camp. He decided to leave behind a few weavers who started the production of the sarees that we see today.

While these sarees are known for their simple patterns, what really stands out in these weaves is a rich pallu with a unique pattern of alternating red and white bands. The border is usually a flat expanse of deep maroon red or chocolate-red thinly separated by white or coloured lines. They come in contrasting colours.

The process of making Narayanpet sarees starts with dyeing the yarn. A unique process is then employed, where eight sarees are made at one go on a loom.

A Narayanpet Cotton sarees takes a day or two to be made, while silk Narayanpet sarees take longer depending upon the complexity of the design. These saris are simple and very light in weight. Because of their durability and low maintenance, these saris have gained immense popularity.