Tussar Sarees of Madhya Pradesh

The state of Madhya Pradesh is also famous for Tussar silk sarees. The look of the Tussar Sari, plain or coloured, is so rich that it is a favourite choice for formal occasions.

Tussar silk produced in Madhya Pradesh, is known by its Sanskrit name 'kosa'.

Raigarh and Champa are important centres for tussar silk sarees and fabrics, where the weaving is done by the Devangan community. These sarees radiate a natural brilliance due to the fibre used. Brocade work is done with Zari to give them an ornate look. The pallavs and borders of the sarees are woven with thread, coloured in the Ikat style to give it a designer touch. Apart from sarees, a wide range of tussar dress material is also available. The Kostha weavers of Chhattisgarh make sarees called 'Mailooga' and 'Gamchha'. These sarees have simple designs and are worn by the Gond, Baiga and Kanwar tribals. For the Muria, Maria, Dhruva and Gadba tribals, the local weavers weave special dresses for folk dance performances namely Dhruva-Bandhipata and Tual. Special weaving is done using coloured threads (red and brown) of the 'Aal' (madder) tree roots.

Design and Fabric : Tussar silk sarees are considered auspicious for marriages, religious ceremonies and other important functions. Tussar silk is a special variety of silk, as the cocoons are raised on Arjun and Sal trees. They come in a range of colors. The motifs and the patterns continuously refer to nature and daily life and they are carefully chosen to enhance the beauty of gorgeous Tussar silk sari.

With time, the range of colour and motifs in the sarees have increased dramatically. The traditional block-printed tussar sarees are very unique and very ethnic. The Tussar sarees radiate a natural brilliance due to the fibre used. In some Tussar silk sarees, brocade work is done with Zari to give them an ornate look. In some, the pallus and borders of the sari is woven with thread, coloured in the Ikat style to give a designer touch.

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Arts & Crafts