Sambalpuri Saree
There is no doubt that Sambalpuri sarees have become extremely famous at present mainly because of their intricate designs and remarkable craftsmanship.
The combination of conventional weaving techniques, natural dyes, and unique materials is responsible for making this particular saree so popular these days.
A Sambalpuri Saree comprises a strip of unstitched clothing that ranges from 4 m to 9 m in length draping over the body in different styles.
Interestingly, the tie-die art, also known as Babdhakala, happens to be the trademark of these types of sarees.
It is primarily produced in Sambalpur, Sonpur, Bargarh, and Boudh districts of Odisha.
Origin of the Sambalpuri Saree
Unfortunately, we do not have any historical records regarding the origin of Sambalpuri Sarees.
Nevertheless, human beings gradually began to cover their bodies with the help of leaves after consuming raw meat for quite some time.
They came to know about the art of producing clothes with the help of weaving techniques. The particular community responsible for developing these Sambalpuri Sarees is known as the Bhulia community.
What is the process of producing Sambalpuri Saree?
• At first, the cotton yarn is going to be tied against a charka or a wooden frame.
• In the subsequent step, it is imperative to dye the yarn. After this, the initial set of knots will be opened by the weavers. Following this, one more tying and dyeing layer will be undertaken. The weavers are going to repeat this procedure a number of times for the purpose of producing multiple shades.
• After this, the threads will undergo a procedure which is called warp and weft. These happen to be the knitting terms that are associated with the threads’ length and width. Here, we like to mention that widthwise these threads are known as weft, and lengthwise they are known as warp.
• During this process, the weavers will measure threads according to the fabric’s required length. Following this, they will knot the warp threads to the earlier ones in the loom to commence the weaving process.
• Interestingly, the process of weaving happens to be the most hectic phase of the entire procedure. On most occasions, almost every member of the family will become involved in the job of weaving so that it is possible to produce the saree within a shorter time.
What makes Sambalpuri Saree so special?
The main highlight of these sarees is that it is embellished with conventional motifs such as wheels, shells, peacocks, flowers, and trees.
All these will be showcased primarily in 3 shades, black, red, and white. However, they are available in various colors these days.
It is a fact that the border and pallus of the Sambalpuri Saree are quite special.
They come with contrasting shades and remarkable designs which helps to make the saree more appealing.
Here, we like to assert that the saree makes use of a technique that is also referenced as well as Ikat.
While implementing this process, the weavers are going to tie-dye the threads prior to weaving.
Different styles and varieties
These types of sarees are available in different styles which are known for their unique significance and charm.
• Sonepuri Saree – Indian women are in the habit of wearing these sarees on special occasions which are considered to be a symbol of elegance. Sonepuri Saree is typically decorated with intricate designs and golden threads.
• Pasapali Saree – The term Pasapali implies chessboard in the Odia language, and this happens to be the main feature of this particular saree. Interestingly, the primary feature of Pasapali sarees happens to be their vibrant colors and checkerboard-style patterns.
How to maintain a Sambalpuri Saree?
It will be essential to maintain the saree properly and with lots of care to make sure that it serves you for quite some time.
Below, we have mentioned some maintenance guidelines for this kind of saree.
• Instructions for washing and storage – Make sure to hand wash these sarees with the help of cold water and a mild detergent. Never use any harsh chemical substances to get the job done. After completing the washing, you need to squeeze out the surplus water gently while hanging the saree in a shaded area to dry. While storing, make it a point to fold it meticulously and store it in a dry and clean location so that it does not get damaged.
• Techniques of preservation – It will be suggested to wrap the saree in acid-free tissue paper, or a muslin cloth so that it is possible to preserve its quality and color. Try not to store the saree using mothballs or plastic bags since there is a possibility for the color to fade. Moreover, it can also harm the fabric to a great extent.
Popularity of Sambalpuri Sarees
Here, we like to mention that the former Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi had a liking for these types of sarees mentioned here.
Sonepuri Sarees became extremely popular when Mrs. Indira Gandhi began to wear them.
Following this, lots of celebrities and politicians in India likewise started wearing these sarees as a part of their daily lives.
It is a fact that the reputed Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan went to the house of Aishwariya Rai for the proposal of the marriage of his son along with a couple of Sambalpuri sarees.
