When we think of the Indian woman, inevitably we think of a lady clad in a beautiful magnificent saree. India is home to a rich variety of natural fibres that are used to produce some of the finest fabrics in the world. The Indian silk saree is one such unique creation that has gained worldwide recognition. The silk fabric too has a wide variety of quality, texture, and colour. One of the most highly regarded silk fabrics are the Tussar silk sarees in Kolkata. Primarily produced in parts of West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand, Tussar sarees give an elegant and sophisticated traditional look.
Tussar silk, also called Kosa Silk, is obtained from the larvae of silkworms ofthe moth genus Antheraea. These silkworms breed on the trees of Sal, Arjun, and Saja that are mostly found in the wild forests only. Hence, Tussarsilk is also known as the ‘wild silk’. When these silk moths are boiled, they produce natural golden-hued threads. Boiling the cocoons of the silkworms is the most crucial step of the silk manufacturing process. Some of the tribal groups boil the cocoons after the larvae have left them. The silk produced from such cocoons is referred to as ‘Ahimsa silk’.
Tussar silk production is a major occupation among the Tribals in Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, Bihar, and West Bengal. A majority of Tussar silk sarees are hand-woven by tribal women with each saree taking about three days to be complete. They are produced by completely natural and eco-friendly methods. Tussar silk threads are unique because of their natural golden hue with a shimmery texture. The sarees are mostly produced in lighter shades of cream, beige, or brown. They are naturally dyed in darker colours to give it a richer and more glamorous look. The Tussar silk saree shops in Kolkata source most of their sarees from Bhagalpur, Bihar as the region produces a large portion of original Tussarsarees. Tussar silk is sometimes also referred to as Bhagalpuri silk.
The Uniqueness of Tussar Sarees
The most fascinating aspect of Tussar silk sareesis that they are the first of its kind where the silkworms breed on wild forest trees, and not mulberry trees. This is what makes them more affordable than pure mulberry silk sarees.
The Bhagalpuri silk industry is more than a few centuries old. It is most famous for its production of hand-woven Tussar silk sarees, a tradition that has been passed down through generations of weaver families.
Tussar silk fabrics are porous in nature, which makes them super comfortable to be worn in hot climates. These sarees are lightweight and are easy and convenient to be draped around.
Tussar silk produces shorter fibres, which makes it less durable. Thus, they need to be properly maintained. The best way to take care of this rich fabric is to always dry clean them. Keep your Tussarsarees in a muslin bag to allow the fabric to breathe.
The natural golden hue of Tussar silk sarees makesthema perfect choice for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, cocktail parties, and receptions. The shimmery texture makes the fabric refract different shades at different angles, making you stand out in a crowd.
Conclusion
If you are looking for sarees that are simple yet elegant, and lightweight yet glamorous, then Tussar silk sarees in Kolkata are just what you want! They can be found in various price ranges.