Wrap Yourself in Traditional Assamese Sarees & Mekhela Sador Handcrafted By Sereki

Guwahati, a vibrant city nestled in the northeastern region of India, is home to many unique and cherished traditions. Among the many jewels it has to offer, one brand shines brightly in preserving the rich Assamese culture Sereki. Known for its stunning Mekhela Sador and traditional sarees, Sereki is more than just a brand. It’s a tribute to the skilful artisans of Assam and a reflection of their deep-rooted heritage. But what makes Sereki so special? Well, that's a story worth telling.

Sereki was founded in 1992 by Reema Khargharia, an entrepreneur with a vision to preserve and promote the exquisite handloom craftsmanship of Assam. The brand’s mission is simple yet powerful: To honour the traditional weavers of North East India and share their artistry with the world. From the first loom in 1993 to a global presence today, Sereki has evolved, but its core value of supporting indigenous artisans remains unchanged.

The Story Behind Sereki: Assam’s Rich Weaving Legacy

If you’ve ever admired the intricate weave of a Mekhela Sador or marvelled at the lustrous sheen of Muga silk, you’ve encountered the craftsmanship of Assam’s weavers. And Sereki is at the forefront of making these age-old traditions accessible to the modern world. The name Sereki itself speaks volumes, representing a fusion of timeless tradition and contemporary design.

Founded by Reema Khargharia, Sereki began as a humble hobby with just four looms. Reema's love for Assamese culture and its intricate textile artistry led her to explore the weaving techniques of the region. Initially, she started with simple handloom sarees and Mekhela Sadors. However, the authentic craftsmanship and unique designs quickly captured the attention of locals, and the brand was born. What started with a small, unmarked shop in Guwahati has now grown into a symbol of Assamese heritage.

Sereki’s offerings are diverse yet rooted in tradition. Their flagship product, the Mekhela Sador, is a two-piece attire that consists of the 'Mekhela' (bottom) and 'Sador' (upper drape). Traditionally worn by Assamese women, this garment is a cultural icon. Sereki’s collection of Mekhela Sadors is meticulously crafted from premium materials like Muga silk, Paat silk, and Kesa Paat silk. These materials are known for their durability, sheen, and elegant texture, making each piece a work of art.

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Over the years, the brand has expanded its range, adding sarees in various styles, colours, and patterns. Whether it's a wedding or a cultural gathering, a Sereki saree is sure to make an impression. With designs inspired by both traditional motifs and contemporary aesthetics, Sereki offers timeless elegance to suit every occasion. Prices range from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000, depending on the complexity of the weave and the material used.

Artisans Who Preserve Heritage Through Weaving

At the very heart of Sereki’s captivating story lies its unwavering commitment to the artisans behind these exquisite creations. Known for their deep-rooted expertise, the weavers of Assam are masters at crafting intricate patterns, often inspired by the natural world and local folklore. For many of these artisans, particularly women, weaving is more than a livelihood—it’s a tradition passed down through generations, a craft that has been honed and perfected over time. But Sereki’s mission goes beyond just creating beautiful garments—it’s about giving these artisans a platform to keep their craft alive and thriving. The brand sources its textiles from regions like Nalbari, Pathshala, and Baksa, where weaving is not just a profession but a way of life.

The bond these weavers share with their craft is profound. Take Nareshwar, a skilled artisan from Nalbari who’s worked at Sereki for over 26 years. He shares, “Sereki has given me a livelihood, a safe space to learn, grow, and hone my skills,” and his dedication is reflected in the signature Muga Silk sarees he weaves. Nareshwar isn’t alone—other weavers, like Xeuti, Nilima, and Maaju, also contribute their passion to each stunning piece, breathing life into every thread.

What makes Sereki truly special is its founder, Reema Khargharia, whose vision transcends the realm of business. With a deep love for Assamese heritage and textiles, Reema’s journey began long before the world took notice of Assam’s handloom industry. What started as a humble hobby in 1993, with just a handful of looms, has grown into a full-fledged brand that represents the very soul of Assam. Her perseverance, dedication to quality, and eye for authenticity have won Sereki a loyal following, with customers returning time and time. Reema’s goal was simply to preserve Assam’s traditions while empowering the artisans who weave them, especially women, for better access to opportunities and a sustainable income. Sereki’s growing success is a testament to her hard work and the support of her team, including her daughter, Anuksha Khargharia, who is now leading the digital transformation of the brand.

How You Can Preserve the Culture

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Sereki is not just a brand; it’s about preserving the heritage of Assam and empowering artisans to carry forward their traditional skills. The brand exemplifies how a small business can have a massive impact on both culture and the economy. It’s proof that there is still a place for traditional art forms in today’s modern world. As consumers, we have a responsibility to support brands like Sereki, which work towards preserving the art and culture of our land. Sereki is a shining example of how businesses can not only be profitable but also play a pivotal role in sustaining livelihoods and promoting cultural heritage. In a world that’s rapidly changing, Sereki stands firm in its mission to celebrate the beauty of Assamese handloom textiles. So, the next time you wrap yourself in the elegance of a Mekhela Sador, remember, it’s not just a garment – it’s a piece of heritage, the love of the artisans.