KALAMKARI MAHESHWARI SILK SAREE

• Exquisite Kalamkari Maheshwari Silk Saree – A timeless fusion of traditional Kalamkari artistry and the lightweight elegance of authentic Maheshwari silk.
• Handcrafted Heritage: Meticulously hand-painted using natural dyes, each motif tells a story from Indian mythology, nature, and temple architecture.
• Elegant Drape & Comfort: Lightweight silk blend with a soft, breathable texture – perfect for weddings, festivals, and cultural celebrations.
• Rich Color Palette: Deep indigo, maroon, and gold accents with intricate black Kalamkari detailing for a regal look.
• Designer Pallu & Border: Elaborate temple-inspired border with peacocks, lotus, and geometric patterns – a signature of the Saree Story with Shanmuka Priya & Azhagi brand.
• Comes with Matching Blouse Piece: Unstitched, hand-block printed silk blouse fabric included.
• Ethically Crafted: Made in collaboration with rural artisans from Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, supporting sustainable fashion and women-led craftsmanship.
• Perfect for: Bridal trousseau, festive wear, traditional ceremonies, and gifting.

2. A Legacy of Craftsmanship – The Story Behind the Saree

Rooted in centuries-old Indian textile traditions, the Kalamkari Maheshwari Silk Saree is a tribute to two iconic weaving and painting legacies.

Kalamkari, originating from the ancient temples of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is a 3,000-year-old hand-painting technique using natural dyes and a bamboo pen (kalam). Revered for its mythological storytelling, each motif is drawn freehand and dyed with plant-based colors like indigo, madder, and myrobalan.

Maheshwari weaving, from the royal town of Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, dates back to the 18th century under Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Known for its lightweight, reversible borders, and crisp texture, Maheshwari silk blends comfort with royal elegance.

Saree Story with Shanmuka Priya & Azhagi brings these two heritage crafts together – where the fluid brushstrokes of Kalamkari meet the structured grace of Maheshwari silk. Every saree is a collaborative masterpiece, co-created with artisan clusters to preserve tradition while reimagining it for the modern woman.

This collection celebrates slow fashion, cultural storytelling, and eco-conscious artistry – one hand-painted thread at a time.

3. Why Choose This Saree?

✅ Unique Artistry: No two sarees are identical – each Kalamkari motif is hand-painted, making your saree one-of-a-kind.
✅ Heritage Value: Own a wearable piece of Indian history, crafted using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
✅ Comfort Meets Elegance: Lighter than pure silk, easier to drape, and ideal for long wear during ceremonies.
✅ Sustainable & Ethical: Natural dyes, zero plastic, and fair wages to artisans – fashion with a conscience.
✅ Versatile Styling: Pairs beautifully with gold jhumkas, temple jewelry, or minimalist pearl sets – perfect for traditional and fusion looks.
✅ Brand Trust: Saree Story with Shanmuka Priya & Azhagi is celebrated for reviving dying crafts and empowering women weavers across South and Central India.
✅ Ideal Gift: Packaged in a premium cotton drawstring bag with a certificate of authenticity – a meaningful gift for weddings, anniversaries, or milestones.

4. Wash & Care Instructions

🧼 Hand Wash Only – Use mild shampoo or gentle liquid detergent in cold water.
🧴 Use Neutral pH Cleanser – Avoid harsh soaps or bleach to preserve natural dyes and silk fibers.
🌞 Dry in Shade – Never dry under direct sunlight to prevent color fading and fiber damage.
🧺 Lay Flat or Hang to Dry – Prevents stretching and maintains the saree’s shape.
🔥 Iron on Low Heat – Use a cotton cloth barrier; avoid direct contact with printed areas.
🧵 Store with Care – Fold neatly, place in a muslin or cotton bag, and store with natural neem leaves to deter moths.
🔄 Avoid Frequent Washing – Spot clean when possible to extend the life of hand-painted details.

FAQ:

Q: What is a Kalamkari Maheshwari Silk Saree?
A: It’s a handcrafted saree combining the natural hand-painting technique of Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh with the lightweight, reversible weave of Maheshwari silk from Madhya Pradesh. This saree features mythological motifs painted with organic dyes on premium silk fabric, making it a luxurious yet breathable ethnic wear choice.

Q: Is this saree suitable for weddings?
A: Absolutely! The rich Kalamkari artwork, silk texture, and elegant drape make this saree a perfect bridal or wedding guest outfit. It’s especially loved for South Indian and traditional Hindu ceremonies.

Q: How to care for a hand-painted silk saree?
A: Always hand wash with mild shampoo in cold water, dry in shade, and iron on low heat with a protective cloth. Avoid direct sunlight and chemical detergents to preserve the natural colors and fabric.

Q: Who makes the Saree Story with Shanmuka Priya & Azhagi brand?
A: The brand is a women-led initiative that collaborates with artisan communities in Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, reviving handloom and hand-painting crafts while ensuring fair wages and sustainable practices.

Q: Does the saree come with a blouse?
A: Yes, each saree includes a matching hand-block printed silk blouse piece (unstitched), designed to complement the saree’s colors and motifs.