Tanchoi sarees are the tratidional sarees of Surat. The weavers of Gujarat are known for weaving this unique variation of silk sarees in India.
These textiles are based on satin weaving. The base is satin and the extra weft floats are merged into the fabric.
As per history of Tanchoi sarees, the tanchoi brocades are originated from China. Tanchoi was brought to India from China by the three (Parsi) brothers named Choi, who settled down in Surat to evolve a unique fabric - a harmonious blend of Indian and Chinese styles. According to a connoisseur, “The tanchoi is a densely patterned heavy fabric with no floats on the reverse; the unused threads are woven into the foundation at the back.
Traditionally the face of the fabric has a satin weave ground (warp threads) with small patterns made by the weft threads, repeated over the entire surface.” The designs are usually found interspersed with bands usually on grounds shaded bright blue, purple, green or red. Flying birds, paired cocks and floral sprays between these from the usual uncluttered patterns, while the pallu is filled with the design from edge to edge, usually figuring peacocks, and baskets of flowers, sometimes even hunting scenes.
Tanchoi sarees are now found in vibrant colours and the weaving technique employs several silk yarns. The sarees are finally created after going through several refinement processes. These sarees are also admired as the wedding sarees in different regions in India. These sarees of Gujarat mostly have a satin finish. These sarees are available in vibrant colours and the artisans add an extra sheen to the sarees to the give them a metallic look and suit the ceremonial purpose.
The fabric of this saree is woven in Surat in Gujarat. In these sarees, traditional motifs such as peacocks and other birds, flowers and hunting scenes are generally observed.
