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Know everything about Murshidabad silk sarees

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Murshidabad is Murshidabad silk sarees or Siraj Ud Daulah or both! Although Murshidabad is also known for some historical sites like Hazaarduari Palace and the Nizamat Quila.

The Murshidabad silk sarees are a part of India’s cultural heritage. Be it any kind of attire, a touch of silk adds to the elegance and panache of the entire look. For centuries, Indians have known and used this shiny fabric, with different regions adding different elements to the weaving variety, patterns, and style. The same is true for the Murshidabad silk sarees that give a certain delicate sheen to the look of its wearer.

History & Origin

According to studies done on the origins of different fabrics, silk weaving was being practiced in Bengal for ages. The silk was particularly manufactured in the city of Murshidabad, West Bengal. Starting right from the farming of silk (also called sericulture) to the weaving of the fabric and printing of the fabric- everything takes place in Murshidabad, giving it the name of ‘Silk Mecca’ of East India.

The quality of silk used in the making of the Murshidabad silk sarees is what makes it such highly acclaimed silk. Owing to its high reputation, this silk was one of the major commodities that the East India Company used to export to England.

The Craft

Murshidabad silk sarees are made of fine mulberry silk that has deep-red or maroon borders. In the earlier times, the border of the Murshidabad Silk sarees was also laced with golden zari, a practice that’s not followed as much anymore. The Murshidabad Silk sarees are also popular for the beautiful and crafty hand-printed designs and use of wooden-block prints.

Presently, there is a Centre of Sericulture Research and Training Institute in Murshidabad, in addition to various NGOs that aim to guide and support the silk weavers and farmers, so that they can produce good quality with an optimum yield of Silk that goes towards the making of the renowned Murshidabad Silk sarees, and many other silk-garments like Kurtis, dhotis, shirts, etc.

Maintenance

The Murshidabad silk sarees are quite a delicate garment and they require to be kept in a damp-proof place and can only be dry-cleaned, to prevent untoward damage to the fabric.

Concern

Like many of the older crafts, the art and trade of Murshidabad silk sarees are also facing quite a challenge due to the changing times. The low profitability associated discourages the younger generation of weavers and craftsmen to continue the legacy of Murshidabad silk sarees. The number of handlooms in use has been dwindling over the years drastically, as the artisans are slowly choosing to switch professions for a better source of income. A lot of areas that were known for the Murshidabad silk sarees weaving have now turned into abandoned looms.

Conclusion

The heritage of Murshidabad silk and the Murshidabad silk sarees must be preserved more proactively, by the efforts of the government towards the industry and the products. Also we, as customers, can choose to adopt and rather flaunt this rich textile heritage of our culture.