Preserving the Beauty of the Kanjivaram Sari

In the past, the kanjivaram was a daily staple in many wardrobes, with its wearers developing a personal and intimate relationship with the sari.

It was worn regularly and washed frequently with an abundance of water, allowing the silk to take on a new form and flow, becoming soft and taking on the shape of its wearer. It lent grace and dignity to the wearer, adding to their personality.

Today, the kanjivaram has become an occasion-based garment, worn for special moments and used as a symbol of class and privilege. As a result, the care and maintenance of the kanjivaram has also changed. The sari is no longer a wash-and-wear garment, but rather a precious piece that requires special attention.

It is advised to remove the sari from its cover soon after purchase and to change the fold from the original fold in which it was sold. The kanjivaram is not a light garment, weighing about a kilo and stacking them up on top of each other can damage the zari (metal thread) of the sari. If you have a sari wardrobe, consider creating slim shelves where you can stack up to four saris, allowing them to breathe and rest.

When it comes to preserving the kanjivaram, it's important to invest time and energy in ensuring that it is stored and cared for properly. This will not only ensure that it lasts for years to come, but also that it continues to tell the story of its wearer.