The Hypnotic Handloom

Why should you own a handloom saree !

Handloom sarees are a recent rage in the market especially after the revival initiative taken by Government of  India and the big designer houses like Anavila or Gaurang Shah. But they are certainly not a new invention, we all must be very well versed with these age old simple handwoven sarees our grannies draped. They rocked their  age wearing these handwoven sarees at home or parties. Some of us have even inherited these treasures from their cupboards and am one of the lucky ones 😇.These handloom sarees give me a nostalgia, as if I can still smell the sweet talcum powder my দিদা (grandmother) used to put on, the soft feel that put me to sleep. I love collecting handloom outfits be it in silk, cotton or khadi.

As the name suggests, Handllom sarees are entirely woven by hand and takes labour of 2 to 3 craftsmen over 3 to 10 days to complete an average saree. And that's what makes it special for me. I am attached to their touch of love and warmth woven through the threads.

If you still are not sold on having a handloom saree, you just need to go through the following points and thank me later 😊😊

• They are woven from 100% natural fiber:

As a genuine handloom saree is woven from 100% natural fiber, they are "breathable", absorbing perspiration, comfortable and unlike synthetic fiber they don't cling to your body.  They are good for your sensitive skin as well. Natural fibers are made from renewable resources and are biodegradable. So if you are a concerned about the environment, yes you made the right choice by buying and promoting natural, handloom fabric.

• Support the employment of thousands of skilled weavers:

The age old handloom industry in different parts of the country has been dwindling in recent times owing to competition from the colossal manufacturers. So every handcrafted and handwoven stuffs we buy, it would contribute to the livelihood of these extremely talented artisans and keep them motivated to carry forward their traditions and art.

Source

• They are works of art on fabric by artists:

Handloom drapes are the best choice for you even if you don't care too much about the above mentioned reasons and worry about the buck spent right. These exquisite weaves are masterpieces themselves, unique and not mass produced. So confidently boast about your exclusive handloom buy.

• Treasures to pass on:

If cared and loved, these handlooms lasts more than a lifetime. I have inherited my dida's Dhonekhali  and dhakai sarees which are difficult to come by these days and also carries a lot of emotions for me. They are way more precious to me than any designer high brand drapes.

• Just because they are IN trend:

What if you care a dime about any of the aforesaid and just want to be stylish and flaunt at any recent party. Hold on and hover over the pictures of recent celebrities flaunting handloom sarees at different occasions. 

Before you thank me for convincing you to buy a handloom saree, here's another important information. Please do avoid pseudo-handloom sarees sold these days by many giant manufacturing centers. A genuine handloom or handwoven saree should come with a Goverment of India's Handloom Mark as in the picture

Handloom mark

Here's my latest buy, a rich, handwoven Begumpuri cotton saree.

For those unaware of Begumpuri sarees, they are handwoven cotton saree, typically having bold lines and geometric pattern running across the body. These are woven in Begumpur (in Hoogly, West  Bengal), a small village within the clusters of villages weaving Dhonekhali sarees. These Begumpuri sarees usually don't need starch, are extremely comfortable and long lasting. Wonderful for formal work-wear or any small gathering or parties. You can dress this up or down with accessories for day or night time wear.
This Begumpuri saree is from Roopveda, an online store having some exclusive collection of handlooms.

 I have paired the saree with a dancer-motif blouse (which is a special one for me because it is a gift from my sister and also depicts my love for dance). i have kept the jewelry minimum for a daytime wear. Have also added a big red bindi , red lips and traditional sankha-pala to go with the traditional ghoroa look😁

Outfit Details:
Saree: Roopveda, search for @roopvedaonline in facebook
Blouse: Material from Gouranga Bastralaya, Gariahat, Kolkata
Jewelry: From various gold shops around kolkata.
Shoes: Bata. Kolkata