An Insight to Sambalpuri Sarees

A Sambalpuri sari (locally known as sadhi or saree) is a traditional handwoven ikat or sari in which the warp and weft are tie-dyed before weaving. It is made in the Odisha districts of Sambalpur, Balangir, Bargarh, Boudh, and Sonepur. The sari is a traditional female clothing on the Indian subcontinent that consists of a strip of unstitched cloth that is draped over the body in various patterns and measures four to nine metres in length. Sambalpuri textiles are inspired by the Baandha style of handicraft. Traditionally, artisans used representations of flora and animals, as well as mathematical patterns, to produce Baandhas.

A craftsman may use this adaptable method to weave colourful motifs, patterns, and pictures into a cloth that might inspire an idea or express a message. Due to the pioneering efforts of Sri Radhashyam Meher, who brought about a significant change in the abilities of the artisans and the quality of the goods, the Baandha fabric is now commonly recognised by its geographical and cultural appellation Sambalpuri. Padmashree Kailash Chandra Meher, Padmashree Kunja Bihari Meher, Padmashree Chatrubhuja Meher, and Padmashree Krutharth Acharya, Handloom Technologist Mr. Ramkrishna Meher (National Awardee) were among the great artisans who contributed to the creation of Sambalpuri textiles. Sambalpuri textiles currently comprise furnishing fabrics, dress fabrics, and saris made of silk, cotton, and mercerized cotton in a wide range of colours and patterns. Baandha artisans are also experts of the ‘extra warp’ and ‘extra weft’ design style, which can be observed in practically all Baandha textiles.

By Subhechcha Ganguly