Celebrate Indian Weaves with the India Handloom Brand Picks

In India, every region tells its story not only through language or cuisine but also through its weaves. Walk across the country and you’ll find that every few miles, the fabric on display changes—each thread carrying the heritage, skill, and cultural pride of generations. From the delicate Kalamkari art of Andhra Pradesh to the vibrant Bandhani tie-dye of Gujarat, Indian handlooms represent a living legacy that weaves together tradition, identity, and craftsmanship.

India Handloom Brand (IHB)'s Efforts for the Handloom Industry

Recognising the value of these traditional arts and the artisans who keep them alive, the Government of India launched the India Handloom Brand (IHB) on 7th August 2015, marking the first-ever National Handloom Day. Spearheaded by the Prime Minister, the IHB initiative was established to guarantee high-quality, authentic handloom products that meet strict standards—not just in terms of raw materials and weaving, but also in socially and environmentally responsible practices.

The India Handloom Brand serves as a seal of trust for buyers and a mark of pride for the artisans. It helps consumers, especially those seeking ethically made and premium handmade goods, to easily identify products that are both beautiful and meaningful. By doing so, it creates niche markets, boosts weavers’ incomes, and ensures that traditional skills are passed down through generations.

In this listicle, we’ll explore some of the remarkable handloom products proudly endorsed by the India Handloom Brand—each one a unique expression of India’s rich textile heritage. Whether you're a conscious shopper, a design enthusiast, or simply curious about Indian crafts, these weaves tell stories that go far beyond the loom.

Arni Silk

Arni silk sarees are traditional silk sarees from the town of Arni in Tamil Nadu. Known for their durability and fine craftsmanship, these sarees feature contrasting borders and intricate motifs, often woven with pure silk and zari. They are lighter than Kanjivaram sarees, making them suitable for both festive and daily wear, while still retaining an elegant and regal appearance.

Aruppukottai Cotton Saree

Aruppukottai banana fibre sarees are hand-woven in Tamil Nadu using fibres extracted from banana stems. These eco-friendly sarees are known for their silk-like texture, vibrant colours, and breathable, lightweight feel. They are chemical-free and showcase the region’s commitment to sustainable weaving practices. Aruppukottai organic cotton sarees are crafted using certified organic cotton and dyed with natural or azo-free dyes. Woven under Cooptex, these sarees are skin-friendly, soft, and ideal for daily wear. They reflect a blend of traditional weaving with environmentally conscious techniques.

Ashawali Brocade Silk Dress Material

Ashavali brocade work is a style of traditional brocade from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, formerly known as Ashaval. Woven with silk and zari, these pieces feature intricate raised patterns and motifs such as paisleys, florals, and birds. Known for their enamel-like borders created using the minakari technique, they are among the oldest brocade traditions in India.

Assam Silk Saree

Assam silk sarees are traditional silk sarees from Assam, northeast India. The term "Assam silk" refers to three major indigenous varieties—Muga, Pat (Mulberry) and Eri silk—each with distinct textures and colours. Muga silk is renowned for its natural golden sheen and exceptional durability; Pat silk is smooth, glossy and generally white or off‑white; Eri silk, also known as "peace silk", is soft, warm, and harvested without harming the silkworm. These silks are prized not only for their beauty and longevity but also for their cultural heritage, hand‑loom craftsmanship and eco‑friendly production methods.

Awadh Jamdani Cotton Saree

Awadh Jamdani sarees are a traditional cotton handloom weave from Uttar Pradesh, named after the Persian words “jama” (cloth) and “dani” (container). Originating in Awadh and refined in Varanasi and Tanda, they feature fine muslin with floating floral and geometric motifs woven via extra-weft techniques. Renowned for their subtle tone-on-tone elegance and royal patronage under Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, these ultralight sarees were prestigious symbols of refinement. Modern revivals continue keeping alive this heritage of finesse and artistry. 

Balaramapuram Cotton Saree and Dhoti

Balaramapuram sarees are traditional cotton handloom textiles from Kerala, woven by the Saliya community who migrated from Nagercoil and Thirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. Initially, they produced super-fine Mundum Neriyathum—a traditional loincloth and upper drape—for the Travancore royal family. Crafted on traditional pit looms using fine unbleached cotton, these sarees are known for their iconic Kasavu gold zari borders and minimalistic elegance. Protected by a GI tag since 2010, Balaramapuram weaving remains a cherished cultural heritage despite challenges from power looms and reduced support.

Baluchari Silk Saree

Baluchari sarees are a traditional form of silk saree originating from the village of Baluchar in Murshidabad, West Bengal. These sarees are renowned for their intricate depictions of mythological scenes, often from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, woven into the pallu and borders. The weaving process involves the use of pure mulberry silk, and the motifs are created using a jacquard loom, a technique introduced in the 19th century. Baluchari sarees are characterised by their elaborate borders and fabulous pallus, with motifs woven diagonally in four alternating colours on a shaded background. The most popular colours include red, green, white, blue, and yellow. The sarees are traditionally worn during festivals and special occasions, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Bengal.

Banaras Brocade Silk Saree

Banarasi brocade sarees are a centuries‑old silk weaving tradition from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The city became famous in the 17th century when Persian‑trained weavers from Gujarat introduced rich brocading using gold and silver zari threads. These sarees showcase elegant Mughal‑inspired motifs—kalga, bel, jhallar and buti—woven either continuously (fekuan) or intermittently (kadhua), creating opulent floral and foliate designs by hand, often taking weeks to complete. They remain iconic bridal and ceremonial wear, symbolising luxury, artistry and cultural pride, protected under GI status since 2009.

Banaras Butidar Silk Saree and Dress Material

Banaras Butidar sarees are renowned for their intricate floral and geometric motifs woven with gold or silver zari. Rooted in ancient weaving traditions, this style flourished under Mughal patronage, blending Persian aesthetics with Indian craftsmanship. The Butidar design gained popularity for its detailed jaal and floral patterns, which became synonymous with regal elegance. Later, the introduction of the Jacquard loom in the 19th century allowed for even more elaborate designs—securing Banaras’ legacy as a global hub of luxurious, handwoven textiles.

Banarasi Cutwork Fabric and Silk Saree

Banaras Cutwork is a distinctive weaving technique used in Banarasi silk sarees, where extra threads on the reverse side are carefully clipped to create intricate motifs. Emerging as a cost-effective alternative to the more labour-intensive Karhuwa method, this style maintains the beauty of traditional designs while increasing production. Rooted in the centuries-old textile heritage of Varanasi and influenced by Persian artistry during the Mughal era, Banaras Cutwork showcases how artisans adapted with creativity and precision to meet evolving market needs.

Begumpuri Cotton Saree

Begumpuri sarees are traditional cotton handloom sarees from Begumpur village in West Bengal, with a weaving legacy spanning over 200 years. Originally simpler in design, they evolved with the introduction of dobby and jacquard techniques. Known for their lightweight texture, bold colours, and serrated extra weft patterns on the body and pallu, these sarees reflect the region’s rich textile heritage. Today, they are celebrated for their comfort, versatility, and sustainable craftsmanship.

Berhampuri Silk Saree

Berhampuri Patta sarees are traditional silk sarees from Berhampur, Odisha, known for their unique Phoda Kumbha (temple) motifs and rich zari borders. Introduced in the 14th century and refined by weavers from Andhra in the 17th century, they are traditionally handwoven on pit looms. These sarees are also offered to Lord Jagannath and received GI status in 2013.

Bichitrapuri Cotton Saree

Bichitrapuri cotton sarees, also called Pasapali sarees, hail from Odisha’s Bargarh district and are renowned for their striking double ikat patterns. Gaining popularity in the 19th century, these sarees were once used to drape deities at the Jagannath Temple, enhancing their spiritual value. Their intricate motifs—like Rudraksha beads and animal figures—reflect Odia cultural heritage and are still worn on festive occasions.

Bomkai Saree

Bomkai sarees, originating from the village of Bomkai in Odisha’s Ganjam district, are celebrated for their intricate threadwork and tribal-inspired motifs. Once woven for royalty, these handloom sarees later flourished in weaving hubs like Sonepur and Barpali. Typically crafted in cotton or silk, they feature vibrant colours, contrasting borders, and symbolic designs like fish, conch, and lotus—each rooted in local myth and culture.

Chanderi Saree and Cotton Silk Dress Material

Chanderi fabric, from the town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh, is prized for its sheer, lightweight texture and luxurious feel. With origins dating back to between the 2nd and 7th centuries BC, it gained prominence during the Mughal era for its zari work and royal appeal. Traditionally woven using a mix of silk and cotton, Chanderi continues to be a favourite in modern Indian wardrobes for its elegance and heritage.

Chendamangalam Dhoti

Chendamangalam dhotis are a traditional handloom craft from Kerala, introduced by the Devanga Chettiar community in the 16th century. Woven initially for the noble Paliam family, the fine muslin dhotis faced decline in the early 1900s but were revived by co-operative efforts in the mid-20th century. Recognised with a GI tag in 2011, these dhotis feature classic cotton yarn and Kasavu borders, blending heritage with modern appeal.

Chettinad Cotton Saree

Chettinad cotton sarees hail from Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad region, rooted in the affluent Chettiar community’s patronage. Known for their durable cotton fabric, bold contrasting borders, and the distinctive “Kandangi” weaving technique on pit looms, these sarees combine style with comfort suited to the local climate. Traditionally featuring earthen tones and vegetable dyes, they reflect the Chettiars’ rich cultural heritage and continue to evolve with modern designs, gaining recognition, including the Indian Handloom Brand tag in 2016.

Covai Silk Saree and Cora Cotton-Silk Saree

Covai silk, also known as Kovai Kora Cotton, is a silk-cotton blend fabric traditionally woven in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Renowned for its lightweight and breathable qualities, it is popular for sarees. Coimbatore, known as the "Manchester of South India," has a rich textile heritage, with skilled weavers from the Kongu Nadu region mastering unique dyeing and weaving techniques. The fabric is also referred to as Coimbatore Silk or Coimbatore Cotton Sarees, reflecting its versatile composition.

Dhaniakhali Cotton Sarees

Dhaniakhali handloom sarees originate from Dhaniakhali in West Bengal’s Hooghly district and rose to prominence around 1935. Woven from durable cotton using a bamboo “sar” reed, these sarees are known for their velvety texture, broad colourful borders, and simple elegance. Traditionally featuring a natural grey body with red or black borders, they are still crafted by a vibrant community of weavers today.

Dharmavaram Pavadas

Dharmavaram pavadas, also known as pattu pavadai, are traditional silk skirts from Dharmavaram, Andhra Pradesh. Handwoven with rich mulberry silk and embellished with gold zari work, they are prized for their vibrant colours, temple-inspired motifs, and durability. Typically worn by young girls for weddings and festivals, these pavadas reflect the weaving heritage of the Silk City and share lineage with the famed Dharmavaram sarees.

Dharmavaram Saree

Dharmavaram sarees, hailing from Dharmavaram in Andhra Pradesh, are iconic for their rich silk, intricate gold zari work, and traditional motifs. Gaining prominence in the 19th century, their design heritage is reflected in the Lepakshi temple artwork. Named after Dharmambai in the 12th century, the town is now known as the “Silk City,” with sarees often worn for bridal and festive occasions. Recognised with a GI tag in 2013, these handloom sarees celebrate the enduring legacy of Andhra’s weavers.

Dindigul Cotton Saree

Dindigul cotton sarees, especially the Sungudi sarees, trace their roots to 17th-century Madurai, when Saurashtrian weavers migrated from Gujarat and were patronised by King Thirumalai Nayakkar. Known for their tie-dye technique and vibrant colours, these sarees reflect a beautiful fusion of Saurashtrian and Tamil weaving traditions. Chinnalapati in Dindigul remains a key hub for their production today, keeping this centuries-old craft alive.

Dupion Silk Fabric

Dupion silk is a traditional silk fabric made from double cocoons, giving it a distinctive crisp texture and natural slubs. Though initially considered inferior, it gained popularity for its durability, two-tone sheen, and structured drape. Widely produced in India and China, it is used in bridalwear, sarees, home décor, and high-end fashion. Dupion silk can be pure or blended and is available in yarn-dyed, printed, and piece-dyed varieties.

Eri Silk

Eri silk, also known as peace silk, is a traditional, non-violent silk from Northeast India, especially Assam and Meghalaya. Derived from the Samia cynthia ricini silkworm, it allows the moth to emerge naturally from the cocoon, aligning with ahimsa principles. Renowned for its warmth, breathability, and natural texture, Eri silk holds deep cultural significance and is central to sustainable, eco-friendly textile practices.

Gadwal Saree

Gadwal sarees are traditional handwoven sarees from Gadwal, Telangana, known for their unique blend of cotton body and silk borders and pallus. Originating in the early 19th century under the patronage of the Hyderabad Nizams, they feature intricate designs created using a three-shuttle weaving technique. The sarees hold Geographical Indication (GI) status and are celebrated for their lightweight texture, vibrant contrasts, and traditional motifs like temple borders and floral patterns.

Gheecha Saree and Silk Shawl

Gheecha or Ghicha silk is a coarse, textured silk primarily produced in Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh, using the leftover fibres from pierced Tussar cocoons. Traditionally hand-reeled by tribal communities, it is prized for its natural golden tones and rustic charm. As a by-product of Tussar silk, it reflects sustainable practices and holds cultural significance within India’s handloom heritage.

Ikat Saree

Ikat is an ancient Indian textile art where threads are tie-dyed before weaving, creating distinctive, blurred patterns. Practised in Odisha, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, each region has its variation—like the Patola of Gujarat and Telia Rumal of Andhra. Revered for its cultural symbolism and craftsmanship, ikat has been used historically in rituals and royal garments and remains integral to India’s textile heritage today.

Guledgudd Khana

Guledgudd Khana is a traditional handloom fabric from Guledgudd in Karnataka, primarily used for blouse pieces. It features a silk warp and cotton weft, with distinctive, wide borders often woven with extra warp designs. Known for its cultural significance, especially in Karnataka and Maharashtra, this heritage textile remains popular for its traditional appeal and craftsmanship.

Ilkal Saree

Ilkal sarees are traditional handloom textiles from Ilkal in Karnataka, known for their vibrant natural dyes, distinctive kasuti embroidery, and a blend of cotton body with silk warp. With roots dating back centuries, they hold deep cultural significance and are typically worn during festivals and rituals. Characterised by their solid-coloured body, contrasting embroidered pallu, and striped or checked borders, Ilkal sarees embody Karnataka's weaving heritage while appealing to modern, eco-conscious tastes.

Kancheepuram Silk Saree

Kanjeevaram sarees, originating from Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, are renowned for their rich mulberry silk, vibrant colours, and intricate zari work. Rooted in traditions dating back to the Chola and Vijayanagara empires, these sarees are deeply tied to South Indian culture and temple heritage. Featuring contrasting borders and pallus, they symbolise elegance and are often worn during weddings and festivals. Recognised with a GI tag, Kanjeevaram sarees continue to represent timeless craftsmanship and cultural pride.

Kani Pashmina Shawl

Kani Pashmina shawls, originating from Kanihama in Kashmir, are renowned for their intricate hand-weaving using small wooden spools called Kanis. Dating back to 3000 BC, these shawls gained prominence under Mughal Emperor Akbar and became symbols of royal luxury. Unlike embroidered shawls, Kani pieces are woven with interlocked weft threads to form elaborate patterns. Today, they remain iconic for their heritage, artistry, and enduring elegance.

Kannur Cotton and Shirting

Kannur, often called the "Manchester of Kerala," has a long-standing handloom tradition dating back to the 16th century, rooted in the craftsmanship of the Saliya community. Supported by royal patronage and later enhanced by the Basil mission’s introduction of modern looms and dyeing methods, Kannur's industry evolved into a major textile hub. Known for high-quality cotton fabrics and unique pedal looms, the region today thrives on cooperative societies and exports a wide range of home textiles worldwide.

Karvati Silk Saree

Karvati silk sarees, also called Karvat Kati or Karvati Kinar, are traditional handloom sarees from Vidarbha, Maharashtra, woven using locally sourced Tussar silk. Their hallmark is the distinctive saw-tooth border—“karvat” in Marathi—reflecting local temple architecture. Woven by the Koshti community, these sarees carry a GI tag and represent the region’s rich heritage and tribal empowerment.

Kasaragod Cotton Saree

Kasaragod cotton sarees, originating in the 18th century, were introduced by the Shaliya weavers who migrated from coastal Karnataka. Known for their unique colour combinations, excellent colour fastness using vat dyes, and durable handloom weave, these sarees stand apart from traditional Kerala styles. Recognised with a GI tag, they reflect a blend of regional influences and are a vital part of Kasaragod’s cultural and textile heritage.

Ketia Silk Shawl

Ketia silk, also known as Ahimsa or Peace silk, originates from West Bengal, particularly Bishnupur and Murshidabad. It is made by handloom weaving broken Tussar silkmoth cocoon fibres, often blended with Tussar, Matka, or Khadi, resulting in a coarse, textured fabric. As the silkworms emerge naturally, the process is non-violent and eco-friendly. Ketia silk reflects the region’s ethical textile traditions and is seeing renewed interest through sustainable fashion initiatives.

Khandua Saree

Khandua sarees, also known as Khandua Pata, are traditional silk sarees from Odisha, closely linked to the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri. Originating in the 12th century and woven in Nuapatna village, they feature intricate ikat designs and motifs inspired by nature and mythology. The tie-dye technique used to inscribe verses from the Geeta Govinda onto the fabric reflects their spiritual and artistic significance. Recognised with a GI tag, Khandua sarees remain a symbol of Odisha’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

Kinnori Shawl

Kinnauri shawls, originating from the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, embody a weaving tradition that spans over 5,000 years, deeply shaped by the region’s harsh climate and rich cultural heritage. Influenced by ancient trade routes from Central Asia, China, and Tibet, these shawls feature distinctive geometric motifs and a five-colour palette symbolising the elements of nature according to Buddhist philosophy.

Kollegal Silk Saree

Kollegal, known as the "Silk City," is famed for its handloom silk sarees originating from the weaving communities of Devanga and Padmasalvi. The town historically supplied silk to the Maharajas of Mysore and is notable for its silk reeling, twisting, and local raw silk production. Its location near Tamil Nadu has influenced its rich cultural and linguistic blend.

Koorainadu Saree

Koorainadu sarees, from Koorainadu (now Koranad) in Tamil Nadu, are traditionally woven in silk and cotton with distinctive delicate checkered patterns. Linked to the Sāliyan weaving community and Saint Nesa Nayanar, these sarees hold deep cultural and bridal significance, especially the Koorai Pudavai worn by Tamil brides. Originally made in cotton, they transitioned to silk by the early 20th century, symbolising prosperity and auspiciousness in Tamil weddings.

Kora Silk

Kora silk, also called Banarasi organza, is a lightweight, sheer silk fabric originating from Varanasi, India. Renowned for its delicate texture and intricate zari work, it has a rich history influenced by Mughal-era Persian motifs. Traditionally worn by royalty and nobility, Kora silk sarees remain a prestigious choice for weddings and special occasions today.

Kota Doria

Kota Doria is a lightweight, sheer fabric from Kota, Rajasthan, introduced in the mid-17th century by Jhala Zalim Singh, who brought weavers from Mysore. Known for its distinctive checkered pattern made by combining cotton and silk yarns, it was originally used for turbans suited to Rajasthan’s hot climate. Woven on pit looms with traditional techniques, Kota Doria experienced a decline in the 1980s but has seen a recent revival.

Kotakonda Silk Saree

Kotakonda silk sarees from Andhra Pradesh are celebrated for their vibrant colours and intricate zari work, featuring nature-inspired motifs like flowers and leaves. Woven using traditional handloom techniques, the labour-intensive process often involves two skilled weavers working on a single loom. These sarees are popular for special occasions and sometimes incorporate the delicate Jamdani weaving style.

Kotpad Saree and Scarf

Kotpad textiles from Odisha are a traditional handloom craft practised mainly by the Mirgan tribal community, known for their use of natural dyes derived from al tree roots, which produce rich maroon and brown hues. The fabrics feature intricate tribal motifs that reflect local life and nature. This ancient craft is culturally significant but currently endangered due to declining interest among younger generations.

Kullu Shawl

Kullu shawls from Himachal Pradesh originally were plain woollen shawls made for warmth. In the 1940s, weavers from Rampur Bushahr introduced vibrant colours and intricate geometric and floral designs, transforming them into decorative textiles. The craft blends traditional handloom techniques using natural fibres with modern influences, making Kullu shawls popular both culturally and commercially.

Kuthampally Cotton Saree

Kuthampully sarees are traditional handloom cotton sarees from Kerala, originating in the 18th century when skilled Devanga weavers migrated from Karnataka under Cochin Royal patronage. Known for their high-quality cotton, natural dyes, and distinctive designs featuring temple motifs and Kathakali figures, these sarees are woven on pit looms. The craft remains vibrant today, continuing a rich weaving heritage in Kuthampully.

Madhavaram Cotton Saree

Madhavaram sarees from Andhra Pradesh are renowned handloom cotton and silk fabrics with roots in the town’s tradition of weaving “Rumals” (handkerchiefs). The craft evolved to include zari-bordered cotton sarees and durable Sico sarees, blending silk and cotton. Known for intricate designs and natural dyes, Madhavaram weaving is a family heritage and produces popular bridal sarees featuring reddish Moduga Puvvu flower borders.

Maheswari Saree

Maheshwari sarees hail from Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, with origins dating back to the 18th century under Queen Ahilyabai Holkar’s patronage. Inspired by the local fort and temple architecture, they feature distinctive motifs and a unique reversible border. Initially made for royalty, these lightweight cotton and silk sarees have evolved into symbols of elegance and fine craftsmanship, reflecting Maheshwar’s rich cultural heritage.

Mangalgiri Saree

Mangalagiri silk sarees, originating from the town of Mangalagiri in Andhra Pradesh, are renowned for their distinctive blend of cotton and silk threads. These sarees are characterised by their crisp texture, lightweight feel, and the signature zari borders that add a touch of elegance. The weaving technique employed is the Jamdani method, a supplementary weft weaving style that creates intricate patterns and motifs on the fabric. This meticulous process results in sarees that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing, making them a popular choice for various occasions.

Mashru Cotton

Mashru fabric is a traditional silk-cotton blend originating in India and West Asia, designed to meet Islamic restrictions on wearing pure silk. It features a lustrous silk surface with a comfortable cotton backing, making it both elegant and practical. Popular since the Mughal era, Mashru is known for its vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Today, it remains an important symbol of Indian craftsmanship and heritage.

Matka Noil Home Furnishing Fabric

Matka Noil is a handloom silk fabric made from pierced cocoons, where silkworms have emerged, resulting in shorter fibres spun rather than reeled. This gives the fabric a distinctive rough texture and appearance. Traditionally woven on handlooms, Matka Noil silk is valued for its unique character and is used in clothing and home furnishings.

Molakalmuru Saree

Molakalmuru sarees, from Karnataka, are renowned for their vibrant colours, durable silk texture, and intricate traditional motifs inspired by nature and temple art. Known as "Karnataka Kanchipuram," they feature a distinctive three-shuttle weaving technique that creates contrasting borders and pallus. With royal patronage and a GI tag awarded in 2011, these sarees represent a rich weaving heritage upheld by skilled artisans using twisted, double-lined silk yarn.

Muga Silk

Derived from Assam’s silkworms, Muga Silk is celebrated for its golden hue and lustrous texture, representing the royalty and opulence of the northeastern state. Cultivated mainly in the Garo hills of Assam, the Muga silk is extracted from the cocoons of Antheraea Assamensis. White Paat and warm Eri Silk are the other two silks produced in the state.

Narayanpet Saree

Narayanpet sarees, originating from Telangana’s Narayanpet town, date back to around 1630 AD during the reign of Maratha king Chattrapati Shivaji. Known for their distinctive checked patterns on the body and intricate zari work on the pallu and borders, these sarees are woven from cotton, silk, or a blend of both. The craft is a vital livelihood for local weavers and reflects a rich heritage influenced by Maratha rule.

Paithani Saree

Traditional silk sarees from Maharashtra, Paithani sarees, originate in the ancient town of Paithan. Woven from fine silk with intricate zari work, they are renowned for their vibrant colours, rich pallu, and motifs such as peacocks and floral patterns. Once patronised by Maratha royalty, they are now treasured as heirlooms and symbols of cultural pride and craftsmanship.

Paramakudi Cotton Saree

Paramakudi cotton sarees are traditional handloom sarees from the town of Paramakudi in Tamil Nadu. Known for their lightweight feel and durability, they reflect the region’s rich cotton weaving heritage. While not as widely documented as other Tamil handlooms, these sarees are valued for their simplicity, comfort, and connection to Tamil Nadu’s broader textile legacy.

Patan Patola

Exquisite double ikat silk sarees from Patan, Gujarat, Patan Patola sarees’ origins tracing back to the 12th century. Known for their complex technique where both warp and weft are tie-dyed before weaving, they were historically worn by royalty and Jain devotees. Patronised by King Kumarpal and preserved by the Salvi community, these sarees were also highly valued in international trade and as bridal heirlooms.

Pattu Cotton

Pattu cotton sarees, particularly from Venkatagiri and Paturu in Andhra Pradesh, are traditional South Indian sarees woven from a silk-cotton blend. Known for their lightweight drape and intricate motifs inspired by nature and mythology, these sarees have been patronised by royalty and passed down through generations of artisans. Blending elegance with comfort, they remain popular for festivals and ceremonies across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

Pochampally Ikat

A traditional tie-dye textile from Pochampally, Telangana, Pochampally Ikat is known for its intricate geometric patterns created by dyeing the threads before weaving. Dating back to the 19th century, it blends artistry with heritage and gained prominence in the mid-20th century with the use of silk and zari. Recognised globally and awarded a GI tag in 2005, it remains a vibrant symbol of Indian craftsmanship and community identity.

Salem Silk

Salem Silk, also known as Salem Venpattu, is a traditional silk fabric from Salem, Tamil Nadu, renowned for its vibrant, long-lasting colours, large motifs, and soft, durable texture. Recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2008, it draws from a rich heritage linked to the ancient Salya weaving community. These sarees, woven on both handlooms and power looms, are widely worn for special occasions and are exported globally.

Shantipuri Cotton Saree

Shantipuri cotton refers to fine handloom sarees and dhotis from Shantipur, West Bengal, with weaving traditions dating back to 1409 AD. Known for their superfine cotton and intricate jacquard designs, these textiles flourished under Mughal and Nawab patronage. Despite challenges during British rule, the industry persisted and expanded post-independence. Today, Shantipuri weaves remain valued for their craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Shaphee Lanphee

Shaphee Lanphee is a traditional handwoven and embroidered shawl from Manipur, crafted mainly by Meitei women. Historically given as a royal honour to warriors and chiefs, it features symbolic motifs such as animals, celestial bodies, and royal insignia. Recognised with a GI tag, the shawl represents Manipur’s rich cultural heritage, though machine-made versions now challenge the prominence of handcrafted originals.

Siddipet Gollabhama Saree

Siddipet Gollabhama sarees are traditional handwoven cotton sarees from Telangana, celebrated for their embroidered motifs of milkmaids from the Golla (Yadava) community. Known for their folk-inspired designs and cultural storytelling, they received a GI tag in 2012 and were recognised by UNESCO in 2022. Though facing decline, efforts are ongoing to revive and preserve this distinctive weaving tradition.

Siruvanthadu Silk Saree

Siruvanthadu, a town in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, is known for its Pattu (silk) saree production, crafted by skilled local artisans. These sarees are valued for their rich texture, traditional craftsmanship, and evolving designs that blend classical and contemporary motifs. The town supports a thriving handloom industry, contributing to Tamil Nadu’s textile heritage.

Tanchoi Silk

Tanchoi silk is a richly woven fabric with origins in China, introduced to India by Parsi traders in the 19th century. It features intricate, colourful patterns and was adapted in Varanasi to include traditional Indian motifs and zari work. Known for its smooth texture and detailed designs, Tanchoi became popular as ceremonial wear, especially among the Parsi community.

Tangail Cotton Saree

Tangail cotton sarees originate from the Tangail district of Bangladesh and were developed in the late 19th century by the Basak community of Hindu weavers. Known for their lightweight, soft texture and intricate borders often featuring delicate zari work, these handloom sarees are comfortable in humid climates. Recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Tangail sarees hold significant cultural value in Bengali tradition and continue to be woven in parts of West Bengal, India.

Tangaliya Cotton

Tangaliya weaving, also known as Daana weaving, is a 700-year-old handloom craft from Surendranagar, Gujarat, practised by the Dangasia community. It features distinctive bead-like patterns created by twisting extra weft yarn around the warp threads, traditionally in wool but now also cotton and silk. Originating from a local legend and shaped by regional conditions, Tangaliya has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and continues to gain international recognition for its unique artistry.

Tussar Silk

A wild silk variety from ancient India, Tussar silk is known for its natural golden sheen and luxurious texture, produced by silkworms feeding on Asan and Arjun trees. Historically linked to royalty and religious rituals, it is mentioned in the Mahabharata and dates back to the Indus Valley Civilisation. India, especially regions like Jharkhand and Bhagalpur, remains a leading producer, with weaving traditions preserved by tribal communities and associated with eco-friendly practices.

Thirubuvanam Silk Saree

Thirubuvanam silk sarees originate from the historic town of Thirubuvanam in Tamil Nadu and are famed for their intricate weaving and traditional designs. Crafted using a unique double warp technique, these sarees boast a durable texture and often feature motifs inspired by temple architecture and nature. Made with high-quality filature silk, they represent a rich cultural heritage, supported notably by the Thirubuvanam Silk Handloom Weavers Co-operative (THICO), which preserves and promotes this exquisite craft.

Uppada Jamdani

Hailing from Uppada village in Andhra Pradesh, Uppada Jamdani sarees showcase a distinctive adaptation of the ancient Jamdani weaving technique, originally from Bengal. Known for their fine, lightweight cotton fabric and elaborate floral and geometric patterns woven with cotton and zari, these sarees blend traditional artistry with local materials. Having gained a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2016, Uppada Jamdani sarees are prized for their elegance and are popular choices for weddings and festivals.

Venkatgiri Cotton Saree

Venkatagiri cotton sarees originate from Venkatagiri, Andhra Pradesh, with a weaving tradition dating back over 300 years under the patronage of the Velugoti dynasty. Known for their fine cotton fabric, delicate Jamdani motifs, and pure gold or silver zari borders, these sarees were initially crafted for royal families and later gained wider popularity. Lightweight and elegant, Venkatagiri sarees carry a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, affirming their authenticity and heritage.

Vilandai Cotton Saree

Vilandai cotton, from Vilanthai village in Tamil Nadu, is famed for its lightweight cotton veshtis and sarees. Initially focused on veshtis, the weavers later expanded to cotton sarees featuring original and silver zari work. Known for their delicate texture, these sarees typically weigh around 200 grams, reflecting the village’s rich weaving heritage.

Wangkhei Phee

Wangkhei Phee is a fine, white cotton fabric from Manipur, originally woven for the royal family in the Wangkhei area near the palace. Known for its delicate, airy texture, it was traditionally used for chaddars (inaphee), phaneks, and dhotis. Today, it has gained broader popularity and holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its cultural and artisanal significance.

Y N Hosakote Silk Saree

Y N Hoskote, a village in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district, has a long tradition of silk weaving, particularly of saris sold under the Kanjeevaram label. Though the village produces high-quality handloom silk saris, its weavers historically lacked a distinct brand identity. Despite their contribution to the celebrated Kanjeevaram tradition, these artisans face challenges such as poor wages and working conditions.

Click here to explore how India’s handloom traditions continue to thrive through regional artistry and modern design innovation.