Authentic Bagambari Khandua Silk Saree – Cream & Red Heritage Handloom

Radiate positivity and grace in this stunning Off-White Mulberry Silk Saree. A masterpiece of Odisha handloom, this saree features a brilliant, glossy off-white body that stands in striking contrast to its bold Deep Red borders. Unlike sheer silks, this is woven from high-quality Mulberry silk, offering a rich, opaque texture with a natural shine that catches the light effortlessly. The look is completed with a simple yet elegant striped pallu in matching rust tones.

Design Pattern:

• The Body: A sophisticated cream/off-white base decorated with traditional ikat "butis". The use of 3 ply by 4 ply mulberry silk ensures the body has a dense, substantial feel while maintaining a brilliant natural shine.
• The Bagambari Design: This saree features the classic Bagambari (tiger/lion-inspired) motifs, traditionally woven into the borders and pallu. These intricate ikat patterns represent strength and royalty, symbols deeply rooted in the heritage of Nuapatna.
• The Border & Pallu: A vibrant crimson red border and pallu provide a bold contrast to the cream body. The pallu is densely packed with ikat work, showcasing the Bagambari elements alongside traditional floral mandalas and temple patterns.
• Fabric Integrity: Unlike lighter silks, the 4-ply weft provides a heavy drape that is completely opaque and highly durable, ensuring the saree retains its shape and luster for generations.
  

Specifications

• Saree Color: Off-white body with Deep Red border & pallu
• Fabric: 4-Ply Pure Mulberry Silk (Khandua Pata)
• Wash Care: Dry Clean
• Brand: SUTA-SAGA
• Product category: Khandua Silk
• Length: 6.25 Metres (including blouse)

Notes

• Model's blouse is for display only; a running blouse piece is included. For a bold look, try pairing this saree with a contrast blouse.
• Slight color variations are to be expected and are a characteristic feature of authentic, hand-dyed textiles.
• Please embrace the slight irregularities of this handwoven drape, as the true beauty of handloom lies in its unique imperfections.
• Digital Representation: We use AI technology to showcase the styling potential of this saree. The fabric and details are 100% true to the actual product.

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History of the Khandua Silk Saree

1. Divine Origins (12th Century) Originating in the 12th Century, the Khandua saree is linked to the poet Jayadev. He wove verses of his epic Gita Govinda into silk as an offering to Lord Jagannath. This tradition survives today as the "Kenduli Khandua," a ritual cloth inscribed with lyrics that is worn by the deities every night.

2. Royal Patronage (18th Century) The craft was formalized around 1719 AD by King Ramachandra Dev II of Puri. He issued a royal decree appointing weavers from Nuapatna and Maniabandha as Sevakas (servitors), mandated to supply silk for the temple, thus securing the art form's future.

3. Distinct Weaving Clusters Production is centered in two villages with unique histories:

• Nuapatna: Home to Hindu weavers who are the primary suppliers for the Jagannath Temple rituals.
• Maniabandha: Historically a Buddhist settlement; weavers here (the Saraka community) blend Buddhist aesthetics (like elephant motifs) with Hindu traditions.

4. Design & Technique

• Meaning: "Khandua" refers to cloth worn on the lower body.
• Technique: It uses Single Ikat (Bandha), where threads are tie-dyed before weaving.
• Motifs: Designs are auspicious, featuring the Nabagunjara (a nine-animal mythical creature), elephants, lions, and Kumbha (temple borders).
• Colors: Traditionally uses Red, Yellow, and Orange; black and blue are strictly avoided in ritual contexts.

5. Modern Status Today, the Khandua Pata is a GI-tagged textile, protecting its authenticity. It has evolved from purely sacred cloth to the quintessential bridal saree for Odia weddings, symbolizing tradition and purity.