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Karnataka

Molakalmuru Sarees: Woven Stories in Silk, draped in Tradition

Weaving traditions of Chitradurga

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The grand vistas of Chitradurga

Amidst Karanataka’s district of Chitradurga lies the town of Molakalmuru. Chitradurga itself boasts of majestic forts – a colossal citadel carved from dark, forbidding rocks, which once barred the entry of any and every intruder. Temples dot the lands of Chitradurga, but the true magic of the place lies in its villages such as Molakalmuru, where the click-clacks of the looms resonate in the air. An oasis of culture and heritage, Molakalmuru is home to the renowned Molakalmuru sarees. These sarees have it all – silken threads, vibrants colours, fine designs and top-notch quality!

Weaving in Molakalmuru

Back in 1967, nearly half of the population of the town was already involved in silk weaving. Traditionally the silk weaving was carried out here by people belonging to Sokulasali, Padmasali, Pattasali, and Devanga community. The present weaver community also includes Adidravida and Muslim communities. Currently, over 3,500 traditional weavers are engaged in the weaving of Molakalmuru sarees.

The Molakalmuru sarees are famed for their sheer texture and appearance. Pure silk yarn in different varieties are twisted and hooked to warp and weft to weave the different portions of the saree – the body, pallav (decorated end of the saree) and the border. A striking contrast of colours is used to dye the borders and pallav of the saree as against the body. This contrast is achieved by executing tie and dye method; the practised hands of the artisans accomplishing the desired effect every time, without fail.

The legacy of Molakalmuru sarees

Molakalmuru sarees chiefly feature resplendent hues of maroon, red, blue, green, yellow, mustard, black, snuff, and pink. Which colour combinations would best bring out the features of the saree? This is decided by the sheer experience of the weavers. Some of the most beautiful motifs can be found on the canvas of these silken sarees that include the Hamsa (swan), Rudrakshi (dried stones of the fruits of Elaeocarpus Ganitrus tree), Vanki, Lotus, Peacock, and Mangoes amongst others. Typically, the border designs are woven in a two-stripe pattern. At times, Molakalmuru sarees features shimmering flows of gold – an effect obtained by the use of gold zari threads procured especially from Surat. 


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Exploring Molakalmuru and its sarees

Molakalmuru offers tourists not only breathtaking vistas of Karnataka but also the opportunity to witness the artistry and craftsmanship behind Molakalmuru sarees. One can explore local textile workshops and interact with weavers gaining insights into this intricate process of saree-making. The textile shops in this town provide the perfect opportunity for purchasing these graceful drapes. Additionally, Molakalmuru boasts of magnificent temples and rich traditions that provide a holistic experience, making Molakalmuru an indispensable stop in exploring Indian textiles!

Molakalmuru sarees represent Karnataka's rich cultural and artistic traditions and provide evidence of the weavers' skill, passion and dedication in creating these timeless masterpieces. In 2008, the Molakalmuru sarees were granted the Geographical Indications (GI) tag by the Government of India. When visiting Karnataka one must surely make a stop at Molakalmuru to experience the timeless elegance of these treasures which have captured so many hearts over the years and remain an integral part of India's textile legacy.