Where classic becomes chic

Vibrant: Collector Mahesan Kasirajan looking at the silk sarees on display at the handloom exhibition in Tiruchi.

Will it be the pretty ‘kolangal' cotton saree with kolam designs adorning the body or the lustrous Samudrika pattu saree with intricate embroidery? Or better still, the plain pure silk sarees which present an extensive canvas to embellish with stones, thread work or embroidery as you fancy.

Choices aplenty

At the district-level handloom exhibition organised by the Department of Handlooms, there are ample choices for women to drape themselves in fabrics of their choice this Deepavali. The fortnight exhibition, with Rs.35 lakh as target, showcases the craftsmanship of around 30 handloom clusters from across the state.

Cotton is predominant with printed cotton, bumper cotton, silk cotton, bumper polyster and pochampalli designs forming part of the array.

From Erode are the elegant cotton sarees with attractive bird motifs while from Madurai are the ‘Aachi' cotton sarees in various shades of green embossed with gold print.

Casting a spell

Though cotton may be a universal favourite, the sheen of silk seems to have cast a spell that is irresistible despite its price. A reason why many of the cotton sarees on display are glossy and imitate the silken touch.

But for diehard silk lovers, the exclusive pure silk stalls are a treat. From Thirubuvanam are lightweight silk sarees and payadi pattu sarees. The traditional Kancheepuram silk saree gets reinvented in tune with the prevalent trends and tastes.

Minimal designs

Apart from rich pallus and dark shades, minimal designs are in this year. Triple coloured sarees, threadwork and embroidery have substantially replaced the heavy zari and dark monotones.

For trendy college goers with a penchant for sarees, Kancheepuram silk with delicate embroidery and floral motifs offer a chic choice.

A favourable bargain are the cotton bedspreads woven with bright yarn from Chennimalai priced between Rs. 140- 500. New on the rack are the lightweight cotton bed sheets priced at Rs. 160 which weavers say are ideal for travel.

Discount

A special discount of 30 per cent is available on all products. The exhibition is on till November 3 at Thevar Hall, W.B. Road between 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

The Collector, Mahesan Kasirajan declared the exhibition open on Wednesday.