Sari outlet Kankatala is curating its an exhibition of rare weaves at its Jubilee Hills boutique

The three-day showcase at the Jubilee Hills-based outlet starts today.
The three-day showcase at Kankatala starts today.
The three-day showcase at Kankatala starts today.

Sari house, Kankatala — Queen of Sarees, which opened their first store in Hyderabad last October, has curated an exhibition that aims to revive some of the rarest weaves in the country. The three-day showcase at the Jubilee Hills-based outlet starts today. “Most of these weaves take a minimum of six months to two years to be completed,” informs Anirudh Kankatala, a third generation member of the Visakhapatnam-based family business. The showcase will comprise three rare yarns — patan patola, the paithani and the bandhini. The whole nine-yards apart, one can also shop for dupattas available in these handwoven fabrics.

Patan Patola
Patan Patola

 
The patan patola, which originates from Gujarat, is a double ikat fabric and is known for the dexterity with which it is woven, resulting in beautiful saris. However, Anirudh is most excited to bring the paithani to Hyderabad. “The technique of creating this Maharashtrian sari is about 2,000 years old, and is now being created by sixth generation weavers. It is etched with motifs exhibiting a Buddhist influence because of the proximity to the Ajanta frescoes,”says Anirudh. The paithani sari — with its bright colours, gold tissue borders, pallu, and signature motifs mirroring nature — is the perfect choice for any festive occasion. Talking passionately about this technique, he shares that some designs like the Mor Bangdi are so unique, that only a few artisans can ace it.

A pretty Paithani
A pretty Paithani


Those looking out for experimental weaves can check their Rajasthani bandhini tie-and-dye techniques on yarns like georgette, Kanjeevaram and even Baluchuri. You have to be quick to avoid a total sell-out as they are only getting 60 of these. This craft, which enables lovely bright-hued saris, is as old as 4,000 BC, and is created by a process of plucking and binding of the fabric before it is dyed. But there’s one thing that stays true for all the saris that will be displayed at the exhibition—they are all heirloom treasures that can be passed on for generations to come.
 

Rs 15,000 to Rs 4 lakh.
— Paulami Sen
paulami@newindianexpress.com
@Paulami309

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