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History of Wanaparthy SareeImage Credit source: aditiraohydrari/Instagram

Sarees have a different significance in India. Saree is kept at the top in Indian attire. Here you get to see many types of sarees, which have their own identity. One of these is the Vanaparthi saree…which feels different from all the other sarees at first glance. Its colour, texture and design reflect a royal austerity. This saree, belonging to the Wanaparthy region of Telangana, is not just a garment to wear, but a living story of history, art and culture, which has been passed down for generations.

The history of this saree is quite old. But in recent years it has gained recognition again. Let us know what is the history of saree? What is different and special in this? Also, what is its connection with actress Aditi Rao Hydari?

What is the connection of Wanaparthy saree with Aditi Rao Hydari?

Bollywood actress Aditi Rao Hydari has a special connection with Wanaparthy saree, which she has recently shared on her Instagram. The actress shared family stories with fans through this saree. She also told how special this Wanaparthi saree is for her.

Aditi writes in her post – A saree whose roots are multicultural, just like me. My grandfather Raja J. Rameshwar Rao started working towards reviving the Wanaparthi saree at a very young age. He encouraged the weavers, ordered them to make sarees for his family and sent them old designs to re-learn and recreate them.

She further says, – I still remember a special saree, which my grandmother, my mother and their sisters had. It was a black Ashrafi saree inspired by the paintings of the famous Raja Ravi Varma. Today I understand that the same saree had settled deeply in my mind somewhere. These memories were hidden in the subconscious and then came out when Sabyasachi designed our half saree for Siddharth and I's wedding held at Wanaparthy temple. For now, I am sharing this exhibition with you all. I am extremely proud to bring this to you. I hope that the weavers of Wanaparthy will be able to reclaim their rich heritage.

What is so special about Wanaparthy saree?

The most special thing about Wanaparthi sarees is that they are completely woven on handlooms. No kind of machine is used to make it. It is made with complete patience, in which the hard work and art of the artisans is clearly visible. Its identity is its wide border design. Mostly you will see temples, flowers, leaves and geometric designs in Wanaparthy saree, which are very intricate and give a royal look.

Which fabric is Wanaparthy saree made from?

A unique combination of cotton and silk is usually used to make Wanaparthy sarees. Cotton and cotton-silk mixture are also used in this. This makes the saree light, comfortable and long lasting. Talking about colors, colors like dark red, mustard yellow, green, blue and maroon are mostly chosen. These colors do not fade easily and give a classic identity to the saree.

History is related to royal families

It is said that earlier these sarees were especially worn by the royals and prestigious families and were made especially for them. The history of saree is linked to the rich cultural tradition of Wanaparthy region of Telangana. This weaving art is believed to have originated many centuries ago, when local weaving communities started making durable and comfortable garments from pure cotton threads. The landlords and royal families of that time in Wanaparthy promoted this art, which gave the weavers an opportunity to showcase their designs and art. Today, Wanaparthi saree is not only a symbol of traditional attire, but also contains within itself the hard work, art and history of the weavers passed down for generations.