Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Adorned Kerela's Kasavu Saree As She Debuted As Wayanad's MP; Know Significance

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wore Kerala’s traditional Kasavu saree while taking her oath as a Lok Sabha MP after winning the Wayanad election

All images form Canva

The Kasavu saree has its roots in pre-Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cultures in Kerala. In ancient times, it was worn by royalty and aristocrats

Today, Kasavu sarees are a key part of Malayali celebrations and hold cultural significance, much like Banarasi silk sarees in North India

The term "Kasavu" refers to the weaving of gold and silver zari (threads) into the saree, especially on the borders. Traditional Kasavu sarees are made from handwoven cotton with real gold and silver threads

While authentic Kasavu sarees use real zari, more affordable versions use colored threads as substitutes for gold and silver

Kasavu sarees are Kerala’s first handloom product to receive the GI tag, highlighting their cultural and regional importance. The main weaving centres for Kasavu sarees are Balaramapuram, Chendamangalam, and Kuthampully. Each cluster has unique features like thread count, zari type, and motifs

Kasavu sarees are essential for Kerala's traditional dance forms like Mohiniyattam, Kaikottikali, and Thiruvathirakkali, where dancers often pair them with traditional red blouses