KALAKHATRA BENGAL PATTU SAREES HANDLOOM | SILK MARK

• Exquisite KALAKHATRA – Bishnupur Saree – A masterful blend of heritage Bishnupur silk and traditional Kalakhatra (storytelling textile) artistry from West Bengal.
• Handwoven Pure Bishnupur Silk – Crafted from fine, lightweight silk known for its soft drape, subtle sheen, and royal heritage—originally woven for temple rituals and Malla royalty.
• Kalakhatra Narrative Art – Features handwoven or hand-painted motifs depicting scenes from Indian epics, folk tales, and temple architecture—each panel tells a story.
• Ethically Handcrafted by Master Artisans – Made in collaboration with weavers and painters from Bishnupur, preserving a vanishing cultural tradition.
• Perfect for Weddings, Durga Puja & Cultural Celebrations – Rich in symbolism and elegance—ideal for brides, festive wear, or meaningful gifting.
• Includes Matching Kalakhatra Blouse Piece – Coordinating unstitched fabric with complementary storytelling design for a complete traditional ensemble.
• One-of-a-Kind Heirloom – No two sarees are identical—each is a wearable narrative, painted or woven with intention and heritage.
• Breathable & Comfortable – Lightweight silk makes it ideal for long wear during warm-weather events and rituals.

2. A Legacy of Craftsmanship (Short History)

The KALAKHATRA – Bishnupur Saree is a living canvas of Bengal’s artistic soul. Bishnupur silk, originating from the ancient temple town of Bishnupur in Bankura, West Bengal, has been woven since the 17th century under the patronage of the Malla kings. Revered for its fine texture and soft luster, this silk was once reserved for deities and royal ceremonies.

Layered onto this heritage fabric is Kalakhatra—a Bengali term meaning "canvas of art" or "storyteller’s cloth." Traditionally, Kalakhatra referred to narrative textiles used in patua (scroll painting) traditions, where artists illustrated mythological tales, folk legends, and social themes in vivid detail. Over time, this storytelling art merged with weaving and embroidery, creating textiles that speak.

Saree Story with Shanmuga Priya & Azhagi revives this rare fusion by transforming the saree into a Kalakhatra—a wearable scroll of culture. Each motif, whether woven or hand-painted, depicts scenes from the Ramayana, Krishna Leela, Durga Puja processions, or temple spires of Bishnupur’s terracotta temples. Founded by textile revivalist Shanmuga Priya and sustainable design advocate Azhagi, the brand empowers local weavers and chitrakars (painters) to keep this endangered craft alive. This saree isn’t just worn—it’s read, felt, and remembered.

3. Why Choose This?

✅ Rare Bishnupur Silk – A heritage fabric with royal roots, softer and more breathable than Banarasi or mulberry silk.
✅ Kalakhatra Storytelling Art – Each panel is a narrative—wearable art that connects you to India’s oral and visual traditions.
✅ Cultural & Emotional Depth – Motifs inspired by mythology, folk art, and temple heritage—ideal for those who value meaning in fashion.
✅ Empowers Rural Artisans – Supports weavers and painters from Bishnupur with fair wages and creative dignity.
✅ Perfect for Brides & Heirlooms – A meaningful, sustainable choice for wedding trousseaus, Durga Puja, or passing down as family treasure.
✅ Eco-Friendly & Skin-Safe – Natural dyes and chemical-free processes ensure gentle wear and environmental care.
✅ Lightweight & Drapes Beautifully – Comfortable for long events, temple visits, or summer celebrations.
✅ Slow Fashion with Soul – More than a saree—it’s a cultural artifact, crafted to be cherished across generations.

4. Wash & Care Instructions

• ✅ Hand Wash Only – Use cold water and mild silk-safe shampoo or gentle detergent. Gently swirl—do not rub, wring, or twist.
• ✅ Dry in Complete Shade – Always dry flat or hung in a cool, ventilated, shadowed area.
• ❌ Avoid Direct Sunlight – Prolonged exposure may fade natural dyes and weaken silk fibers.
• ✅ Iron on Low Heat – Use a cotton cloth barrier to protect the Kalakhatra artwork and delicate silk.
• 🛑 Do Not Soak or Bleach – Prevents color bleeding and damage to hand-painted or handwoven details.
• 📦 Store with Care – Fold neatly with cotton tissue; avoid plastic. Use neem leaves or lavender sachets to deter moths.
• 🔍 Handle with Gentle Hands – Avoid sharp jewelry or rough surfaces that may scratch or smudge painted motifs.

Note: Slight variations in motif placement or color are natural—this reflects the handmade essence and is a hallmark of authenticity and storytelling artistry.

FAQ

Q: What is a Kalakhatra Bishnupur Saree?
A: A Kalakhatra Bishnupur Saree is a storytelling textile from West Bengal, combining handwoven Bishnupur silk with narrative art (Kalakhatra) that depicts scenes from Indian epics, folk tales, or temple life—each saree is a wearable scroll of culture.

Q: Is this saree made of real silk?
A: Yes. This is 100% Pure Bishnupur silk, a heritage fabric known for its soft drape and subtle sheen. While not always Silk Mark certified (as it’s a non-mulberry variety), it is genuine, handwoven silk.

Q: What kind of stories are depicted on the saree?
A: Motifs include scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Krishna Leela, Durga Puja processions, and architectural details of Bishnupur’s terracotta temples—each telling a cultural or spiritual story.

Q: Can I wear this for Durga Puja or a wedding?
A: Absolutely. This saree is perfect for Durga Puja, weddings, or cultural events—its rich heritage and storytelling art make it deeply meaningful and visually stunning.

Q: Are the colors natural?
A: Yes. The Kalakhatra art uses natural, plant-based dyes—free from synthetic chemicals—making it eco-friendly and safe for sensitive skin.

Q: How should I wash a Kalakhatra saree?
A: Always hand shampoo wash in cold water, avoid wringing, and dry in complete shade. Do not expose to sunlight to protect the natural dyes and delicate artwork.

Q: Who makes these sarees?
A: Crafted by Bishnupur silk weavers and chitrakar (folk artists) from West Bengal, in collaboration with Saree Story with Shanmuga Priya & Azhagi—a brand dedicated to reviving Indian handlooms and empowering rural artisans.

Q: Why is this saree special?
A: It’s not just fashion—it’s a cultural heirloom. The Kalakhatra transforms the saree into a storytelling canvas, blending Bishnupur’s royal silk with folk narrative art—a rare fusion of heritage, art, and soul.