The term Mangalgiri is evolved from the place Mangalgiri which is situated in the State of Andra Pradesh. The town is famous for its temples and people often go on devotional trips to this destination. Furthermore, Mangalgiri is popular for its ever famous Manglagiri sarees.
This Saree’s specialty has complex minute tribal patterns that are woven in cotton dyed fabrics with extra Zari and golden colored designs that appears to be in small checks. The edge of the saree or also known as the ‘pallu’ has an array of thick, striped lines that is made up of golden zari material which is also a sign of the the tribal characteristic. The sarees are known for its bright and bold colors and is an epitome of elegance.
Origin and History
Since the beginning of time, the village of Mangalgiri was well known for its famous temple of the Lord Panakala Narishima Swamy which is situated in the center of the town. The temple has existed since Satya Yuga and Lakshmi Narasimha temple is beneath the present temple. During the ancient times, the pilgrims was to purchase a Mangalgiri saree from the local weavers and then, they would enter the temple. Hence, this particular saree’s popularity increased with time and became more of a fashion statement.
How its Made
Mangalgiri is made with cotton material that is bought from the mills. The cotton yarn is boiled in water with caustic soda for a period of time before it goes into dyeing. For white colored sarees, the yarn is bleached in prior to weaving. Otherwise, chemical dyes are used for other colors. Soon after, the dyed yarns are sun dried before the weaving process is done. Furthermore, the main feature that makes the Mangalgiri sarees stand our from other sarees is that the weaver puts in much force whilst the weaving process is done. Thus, there are no gaps for the thick zari border and zari pallu which the saree is known for.
Modernization of the Mangalgiri
This type of fabric is not only worn as sarees, but in the present day, Mangalgiri is worn by many youngsters as kurthas, tunics, shirts, dupattas and stoals. The cotton fabric gives much comfort during summer breezy days. Moreover, these dress materials have become popular that its got a global demand as well. Additionally, the new generation have adopted to wearing bags and using clutches with the Mangalgiri weave.
References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangalagiri
https://www.unnatisilks.com/mangalagiri-history-weavers-world.html
