Mysore Silk is a form of Karnataka Silk and it is one of the purest forms of silk. The shimmering effect of the Mysore Silk Sarees and the Bangalore Silk Sarees is one unique characteristic of Karnataka Silk and attracts the customers.
Mysore Silk is a trademark for the silk sarees produced by KSIC (Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation). The distinguishing feature of this saree is the usage of pure silk and 100% pure gold zari (a golden coloured thread containing 65% of silver and 0.65% of gold).
Mysore Silk Sarees are world famous for their fine form, vibrant colors and rich feel. Mysore Silk has become an integral part of the very rich tradition of South Indian Sarees. South India has a very old tradition of silk sarees that is rich in its variety and Mysore Silk surely tops the list of South Silk forms that are popular.
The beauty of the Silk Sarees of Mysore depend largely on the intricate work of 'Zari'. Mostly these sarees contain golden lace on the saree edges and on the part of the saree that covers the shoulder.
Mysore silk sarees are also undergoing an innovating change with the use of kasuti embroidery, thickly woven pallus (the part of the saree worn over the shoulder), bandhini techniques and new colours like lilac, coffee-brown and elephant-grey.
Among the different Mysore silk types that are famous, the Mysore crepe silk is the most sought after. There are excellent weavers who have mastered the art of weaving this special kind of silk. The Government Silk Weaving Factory is famous for producing beautiful Mysore silk sarees.
Mysore Silk Fabric: Mysore silk is one of the most popular and finest and purest forms of silk. Mysore silk is a famous variety of silk made in Mysore and Bangalore in Karnataka. Known for its extraordinary quality and permanence of luster, it is an integral part of the Karnataka's culture. In this region, people always wear some kind of silk while participating in a ritual. Mysore silk draws its fame from the purity of the silk, its lustre, softness and richness of its natural colour which gave it precedence over all other silks.
The Process: The weight and the content of gold or silver thread used mainly in the intricate border and the pallau or the headpiece determine the price of the sarees. A saree usually weighs between 400 and 600 grams (15-21 ounces). The silk is dyed using natural pigments and woven into intricate but, subtle patterns featuring motfis of birds or fruits. The painstaking production process by the weavers ensures that every aspect of the saree is perfect.
Design and Colours: Mysore silk saree with its extraordinary sheen of the fabric, purity of the zari, the distinctive drape, a wonderful non-crush quality, and a butter-soft feel gives a elegant look to anyone who wears it.
These classy sarees are not only washable, but also durable. The zari too rarely fades because the yarn used has the maximum gold and silver compared to any silk saree in the country.
The intricate zari work on the borders and pallu set them apart. Mysore silk saree is undergoing a makeover with new kasuti embroidery, bandhini designs, rich woven pallus, and with a palette of exciting vibrant colors lilac, ecru, coffee-brown and elephant-grey, and contemporary designs, all inspired by traditional Indian architecture and ancient Indian jewellery.
This saree exhibiting a range of rich colors, with golden threads interwoven in it for an enhanced effect, has almost acquired a legendary status due to its sheer beauty and demand.