Sari in a Tamil Wedding

An elegant traditional Indian attire, the sari plays a significant role in Indian Weddings. The following blog post takes look at the same with special reference to Tamil wedding.

Indian weddings are known across the world for their flamboyuant nature and elaborate traditions. From wedding attires to jewelry, decoration to elaborate meals, all play a very important role in an Indian wedding.

Among all Indian attires, the sari is probably the most elegant. Indian weddings are incomplete without them. The history of the sari can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The earliest known depiction of this attire is seen on a statue of a priest derived from the ruins. Since then until the present century, sari is such an attire that is adorned by every Indian woman. Every Indian community right from Gujaratis to Assameese and from Rajputs to the Tamils, each community treasures this nine-yard cloth.

The sari finds its reference in Indian literature as well. The ancient Tamil poem Silapattikaram makes several references to the Sari. Banabhatta’s seminal work Kadambari also mentions about this elegant attire.

Just like any other communities, Sari is important in any Tamil Wedding. Tamil brides look their best in a sari draped in traditional way. A Tamil bride usually wears a red sari during these days. However, these days, they choose from other colours as well. Traditionally Tamilians opt for kanjeevaram saris with borders decorated in temple designs.

When it comes to a Tamil wedding, nothing can match up to the level of a kanjeevaram sari. Naturally woven, these saris are considered to be of the highest and finest quality. These saris are distinguished by wide contrasting borders. Depending upon the intricacy of the thread work, colour and material used, a kanjeevaram sari can cost somewhere between Rs. 5000 to Rs. 100,000.

According to Hindu Mythology Kanchi weavers are the direct descendants of Sage Markanda, the master of Gods. It is believed that he had woven a tissue from the lotus fibre.

Till date, rich Tamil families visit places like Kanchipuram and Tirubhvanam to pick up the best collections in a bridal sari.

Author: 
Sampurna Majumder