Chanderi: From Vedic to Vogue
Chanderi: From Vedic to Vogue
In a small town in Madhya Pradesh, the finest handloom weavers in the country created a fabric – named after the town itself – that would go on to become the favorite of kings, queens, and fashionistas alike. And in the centuries to come, this delicate, shimmering fabric would become the highlight of every fashion lover’s wardrobe.
We’re of course talking about Chanderi. Blessed with a rich, sheer texture and paired with intricate gold zari work, Chanderi is an interesting and versatile fabric. What’s more, the story of its inception is even more interesting.
While most historians and connoisseurs agree that the true evolution of the fabric began in the late 1800s, Chanderi was believed to be created in the Vedic Period by Shishupal – yes, Lord Krishna’s cousin! It later became the fabric of choice amongst Indian queens during Mughal rule. Later in 1910, the Scindia royal family in Central India began patronizing Chanderi sarees, thereby giving rise to the first cotton muslin saree.
Chanderi witnessed its first major transformation in the 1930s, when traditional weavers discovered Japanese silk and began incorporating it into the saree fabric. And thus, Chanderi silk was born! Today, this sheer and lightweight fabric is available in three types – pure silk, pure cotton, and a silk-cotton blend.
It was these royal connections that inspired Latha to design her new Spring Summer collection – Devitva – a range of salwars in luxurious Chanderi silk in pleasing earthy colors, replete with intricate hand embroidery and free-flowing cuts. Recreating the grandeur of the Mughals and the Scindias, Devitva is devoted to the timeless fashion and evergreen classics of yore – perfect for every weather.
After all, while trends and come go, true class like Chanderi never goes out of style.