The Sambalpuri sarees are renowned globally for their unique appeal and look
Dwijendra Kumar
A saree is an Indian ethnic dress that is synonymous with glorious Indian tradition and culture. In the modern age, though working women find it uncomfortable to wear it in office, the fact remains that in official meetings too, wearing sarees leaves a strong impression on the people. Wear with confidence and have a genuine smile on the face, and you may surely be able to win many hearts. India has a long tradition of respecting elders, and one of the surest ways to glide into their hearts is to be draped in it.
No wonder then; sarees have been weaved in numerous patterns using various techniques. The type of weaving techniques, colours, embroidery and fabrics used differ from place to place, and so we have a number of reputed centers churning out a scintillating range of sarees with their individual and distinguishing characteristics.
The sarees created at Sambalpur in Odisha too are renowned globally for their unique appeal and look. These are basically handwoven and made with the use of the tie-dye technique, wherein the weavers first tie-die the threads before weaving them on a loom, also known as Bandha technique. The advantage of using this technique is that even after it is dyed, the tied part remains unaffected and flaunts the original design in its pristine glory. Bright and vibrant colors and unique patterns are its special features. These sarees are very popular among cotton and silk users since the fabrics used are of premium quality.
The other distinguishing feature of the Sambalpur sarees is the use of certain motifs very closely associated with Odian culture, such as flowers, wheels, conchs, lotuses, mangoes, butterflies, elephants, peacocks, folk and cultural traditions etc. Sambalpuri sareers are available to the discerning consumers in a number of varieties, such as Barapali, Bapta, Sonepuri, Bomkai, etc. These sarees derive their names from the places of their origin. For example, Sonepuri sareers are made at Sonepur. Samabalpuri sarees are known for variations in the weaves and the single and the double ikkat types.
Sambalpuri sarees are able to attract our attention also because of the vibrant colors in which they are available, such as blacks, reds, blues, whites, oranges, etc. Contrasting borders add further charm to the beauty of such sarees. Fabrics used are mostly pure cottons or silks, making them more expensive than others.
Wear Sambalpuri sarees with traditional ornaments such as long earrings and bangles in matching or contrast colors to look your best. You can drape it the way you want—in a modern way or the traditional way. The cuts of the blouses may also be both traditional and modern. Don’t forget the fact that Vidya Balan in the Hindi movie Shakuntala Devi is said to have worn Sambalpuri sarees throughout.
While washing it, avoid using chemicals. It would have a detrimental effect on the colour and the fabric. Instead, shampoos or detergents are used. Machines are also not to be used. Washing by hand should be practiced. While drying it, avoid the places where sunrays are coming directly.
The Sambalpuri sarees are the products of labour of love. The traditional technique used takes a lot of time on the part of artisans. They deserve to be promoted and financially rewarded. Do flaunt Sambalpuri sarees in the office or at the party. These sarees are also available online. Choose your pick and place your order with a reputed and reliable dealer. Be proud of India and its rich cultural heritage!
(Dwijendra Kumar is a Mass Communication Professional who writes on fashion, lifestyle & communication. He has also authored books on fashion design & textiles. Views are personal)
