Paithani: The Inheritance of Memory

Hailing from the ancient town of Paithan in Aurangabad, where it has been lovingly crafted for nearly two millennia, the Paithani is renowned for its gleaming palette and bold tones. The finest of Paithani sarees captivate the eye with the brilliance of their rich colours, the luxurious flow of the fabric, and the intricate meenakari zari work on the borders, pallu, and buttas. During the illustrious Peshwa period, this saree received royal patronage and grew to unparalleled heights in realms of textile art, worn by kings and queens alike.

Popping up in historical records from ancient Greece, Paithani fabrics and sarees have endured the test of time — reaching their pinnacle during the 16th century rule of the Peshwas. The value of the Paithani then rose once again under the patronage of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb (who was so fond of the weave as to introduce new designs that are today known as Aurangzebi) and yet again — during the period of British colonial rule — under the support of the Nizam of Hyderabad whose wife, Niloufer Begum, is said to have designed the Parinda (pheasant) motif for the weave. Although significantly affected by the onset of British colonial rule, the revived Paithani flourishes today in Maharashtra under the government's initiatives and support for handloom weavers.

Our Paithanis are meticulously crafted on wooden looms, which require a perfect symphony of eye, foot, and hand. Operated predominantly by skilled women, these looms use spindles (known tilli) to execute the interlocking technique, split tapestry technique, and dove-tailing method of weaving. The process demands extraordinary care: the most complex and opulent of heirloom & bridal Paithanis can take up to two years to craft by hand in harmony. The result is a saree that flows as beautifully as it holds itself together—emanating fluid grace and steadfast poise.

The history of the Paithani saree is inextricably tied to the history of the women who weave, wear, and shape its legacy. Not only is the saree an instantly recognised garment, it is so cherished in the hearts of its custodians as to have entire poems devoted to the nostalgia and pride it inspires. Infused with the characteristics of the people who come before us, when we inherit a saree, we feel the very weave carries the memories of those who draped it before us. One such incredible literary ode to the Paithani is the poem "पैठणी" by the famous Marathi poet Shanta Shelke, wherein the poet relives her grandmother's life, both its triumphs and tribulations, when draping an inherited Paithani saree.

Paithani sarees are even now valued so highly as to be worn on only the most important occasions, cherished and passed down as inheritances across generations. Considered to be worthy of heirlooms, they are historically bequeathed from mother to daughter to granddaughter. Steadfast and proud, the Paithani stands for the strength and grace of a well worn and much beloved legacy. Similarly, becoming the first in one's line to own a new Paithani (traditionally as a bride, but joyously now as independent women as well) is also considered a landmark moment in one's life. As the tale goes, a Paithani woven with real gold or copper, if set on fire, should melt down into a sphere of perfectly gleaming metal.

Drawing inspiration from antiquity, Rudrani—our Paithani collection—is an ode to the timeless sophistication of this handwoven saree from the ancient town of Paithan: a weave gleaming with an inherent and unparalleled lustre. A hallmark of the Marathi saree tradition, and a staple for festive occasions as well as bridal trousseaus, the Paithani is resplendent with an inextinguishable innate elegance. A testament to the historically iconic royal weaving cultures of its birthplace.

Embrace the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship with a Paithani that embodies the softest silks and the most profound values. Crafted by hand; worn with pride.