Hello everybody! I am back this week with our Spotlight on Andhra Sarees, after a super-long gap—a decade! This week’s feature is the Dharmavaram of Rayalaseema.
History
Most may not know but there are actually three Dharmavarams in Andhra. The first is in West Godavari, the second in Vizianagaram, and the third, which is home to the famous Silk Saree of same name, is in Anantapur District.
Dharmavaram gets its name from ‘Dharmamba’, who was the mother of Mysore family nobleman Sri Kriyasakthi Wodeyar. He constructed the irrigation tank that supplies the water-deprived region. The town is also known for the Sri Lakshmi Chennakeswara Temple, which is considered to be a touchstone of architecture from the region and era. In an amazing feat, the pillars produce an entire octave of musical notes. Artisans of the region are also known for their puppetry as well.
In honour of the current ICS theme of Vijayanagara and its valorous Emperors, we give you the dress of its Empresses: Dharmavaram.
Characteristics
Dharmavaram sarees are somewhat similar to the famous Kanchipuram Saree of Tamil Nadu. The key difference is that Dharmavaram is more restrained. The colours are more of a more dignified, muted nature and usually have double shades of yellow and maroon. This is especially used for weddings, due to brocaded gold patterns, creating an elegant, noble look.
They have thick, stiff borders and are immediately identifiable with their buta—repeated spots in a close or spaced out pattern.
It is known for its balance between rural tradition and urban sophistication. It combines the authentic workmanship with classiness.
While Madhavaram is known for more orthodox and traditional weddings, the Dharmavaram is ideal for more royal and aristocratic weddings. They are paired well with heavy jewelry, like Kasulaperu.
Aim to Impress: Dress like an Empress!
Truly a treasure of Rayala vaari seema, the noble heritage, look, and feel of the saree will make any lady look like she is from Ratnala vaari seema. A beautiful saree that is a great part of Rayalaseema’s heritage.
Dharmapatni ki Dharmavaram ey Saree
Saree of the Dharmic Wife
References
- http://www.utsavpedia.com/textiles/silk-crusted-with-elegance-and-splendor-dharmavaram-silk/
- http://www.dharmavaram.org/sarees.html
- http://www.dharmavaram.org/about.html
- http://www.apcofabrics.com/dharmavaram.html
Great post, VT! Nice to see you back after hiatus here (and on the topic). Can’t believe it’s been a decade!
Thank you Nripathi!!! Happy to be back. Will have to think of some new topics since I think we’ve now covered most of the sarees 😉
A fascinating article. My 87 year old [aristocratic ] Andhran/ Telugu mother has always worn the most beautiful sarees. Her sarees made life in England more bearable. I never wore them but I truly appreciate them.