Welcome to another insightful post on the Handlooms of India. Today, I have the pleasure of delving into the exquisite world of Bobbili Handloom Cotton Sarees. Through this series, I aim to embark on a journey of learning, embracing, and sharing the rich tapestry of India’s handloom weaves.
You might also like these related posts:
- Handlooms of India Part#3 – Kora Silk Saree
- Handlooms of India Part#4 – Baluchari Saree
- Handlooms of India Part #1-Tissue Banarasi Katan Silk Saree
- Indo-Western Outfit with Telia Rumal Blouse
- Indian to Western Outfits with Shirtdress
Handlooms Of India- Bobbili Handloom Cotton Saree
What is a Bobbili Saree?
It’s a simple Handwoven cotton saree. Bobbili sarees cost as low as ten rupees back in the day. Apart from being affordable, these sarees are known for being supremely soft and lightweight, making them perfect for everyday wear on a hot summer day.
Where is Bobbili Weave Originated from?
Bobbili Handloom Sarees are handwoven in a small town called Narayanapuram, seventeen miles farther from Bobbili in Andhra Pradesh, India. In earlier days, these sarees were brought and sold to the Zamindars of Bobbili.
Tell me more about Bobbili Handloom Cotton Saree.
Earlier, these sarees were woven in 120 thread count, but nowadays, they mostly come in 100/100 and 100/80 thread count. At a stretch, four sarees are woven with wrap thread of 100 counts with a weft thread count of either 100 or 80. It is commonly understood that the higher the thread count, the finer the fabric. (source- Medheeni)
You won’t find motifs or interlock techniques on Bobbili sarees; they are mostly solid pastel or color block colors, or some designs have stripes and checks.
[Related Post: Handlooms of India, Katam Silk Kadiyal Saree]
Where Can I Buy Bobbili Saree in the USA?
You can buy an authentic Bobbili Cotton saree at Medheeni. I didn’t know about the handloom until I encountered their page on IG. Ever since I have been eager to share this lesser-known handloom of Andhra Pradesh with you. I was waiting for the right saree and the right ensemble!
How Can We Protect Bobbili Handloom Weave?
Today, no help is extended from the government of Andhra Pradesh to support Bobbili weavers. Due to this, only a handful of weavers are left in the community, most of whom are in their 50s and 60s. It resulted in a huge decline in the Bobbili saree demand and the added misery of the following generation showing no interest in taking up the profession.
We can only protect this weave from extinguishing by embracing it, talking about it, and passing it on to the next generation!
I am giving the age-old Bobbili saree a modern spin by pairing it with a bell sleeve blouse, belt, and statement jhumkas.
Can you believe the blouse is a crop top I found at H&M? I knew it would look great paired with a saree when I saw it. I kept the jewelry minimal with statement Silver Jhumkas and bangles and let the saree stand out.
Shop The Outfit
H&M Crop top worn as a blouse (similar here, here, and here)
925 Silver Jhumkas (check out more from the brand styled here and here)
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