10 Traditional Kanchipuram Silk Saree Motifs And Patterns

how to identify kanjivaram saree

We at Singhanias Hyderabad preserve the tradition in the exquisite hues of 6-yard-long sarees. These traditional sarees are the tales of cultures from the treatise of time. Uncloaking these weaving crafts brings us enriched motifs and patterns from the past.


The deity land of Kanchipuram is famous for silk and is eminent as the city of thousand temples. Depicting the ambiance of divinity and simplicity, Kanchipuram has intertwined the religion and weaving in its tinges. In this 10 Traditional Kanjivaram saree Motifs And Patterns blog, we are going to bestow you with the sacred Motifs And Patterns of Kanjivaram sarees with the inspiring hints of nature, architecture, and sculptures of Kanchipuram. So embrace yourself for a journey with Singhania's Hyderabad in exploring loved and cherished authentic Singhanias Kanjivaram sarees.

Mayil: The Peacock

traditional peacock motifs

 An emblem of pride and prestige, the Mayil motif is an ancient motif and a companion of Kanjivaram sarees for eternity. Being the secular symbol of beauty, love, romance, and life itself, mayil is ruling over a million hearts. Inspired by the land and nature, master weavers depict Mayil motifs on Kanjivaram as a spiritual animal and as a tribute to all the mythological stories of the Almighty and the rejuvenation of Mayil.

Yaali motif : Divine defender

motif design patterns

Yaali is a mythical creature. A treasured motif of the Kanjivaram sarees and an emphatic symbol of protection. Part lion, part elephant, and part horse, the Yaali is a sacred motif protecting the halls and doors of most temples in Tamil Nadu. With the skilled hands of a Kanjivaram weaver, the Yaali motif became a significant part of traditional Kanjivaram sarees. On the occasions like wedding ceremonies, festivals, and rituals, Kanjivaram sarees with yaali motifs shield you from the evil eyes and stow an auspicious essence around you. 

 Maanga Motif

saree motifs

The maanga motif has a prominent place in Indian mythology. This austere shape of maanga is also known as paisley. The uniqueness of this remarkable motif is its simple yet enchanting design and the symbolic meaning behind it. As a symbol of prosperity, abundance, and richness, the maanga motif has conquered its place in the Kanjivaram saree heirloom. The maanga motif has become a beloved motif among weavers and is extensively used in the border, pallu, and body designs of a Kanchipuram saree.

 Yanai (elephant) and Winged Horse (Kuthirai)

 

yanai pattu

The Kanjivaram saree stands testimony to a dynamic craft in which rare animal motifs are woven spectacularly in silver and gold. The elephant is an auspicious motif and is traditionally associated with royalty and wealth. It's a symbol of protective power, courage, and wisdom. And the chariot of goddess Lakshmi. 

The winged horse is a predominant feature of the mandapams of temples in south India, from which Kanjivaram weavers have drawn inspiration for different motifs. The winged horse is a symbol of freedom, power, and eternal integrity.

 Kodi Visiri (Floral Creeper)

floral kanchi pattu sarees

Kanjivarams are known for their elaborate patterns crafted in gold zari and silver zari that are inspired by flora and fauna, in the most used design is kodi visiri (floral creeper). The term kodi visiri in Tamil means a gentle floral creeper border design that resembles the tendrils clinging and winding themselves around trees, where on a silken drape this chain of vivid floral motifs and buttas fan out along the borders or is woven as a pattern on the pallu.

 Mayilkan- The Peacock's Eye

traditional peacock motifs

Mayilkan- The Peacock's Eye is one of the most intricate and ancient motifs among Kanjivaram motifs. Mayilkan motif is inspired by the mythological tale of a battle between Lord Indra and Ravana and how a peacock raised its rail and spread its feathers in full glory to protect Lord Indra and offer him momentary refuge. Immensely pleased and grateful, Lord Indra blessed the peacock with a thousand eyes.

 Poo Chakram Motif

traditional motif

Artistically  Poo Chakram Motifs is one of the oldest and much-appreciated designs. You can intrinsically spread Poo Chakram motifs across the saree and still have a stunning and eye-catching creation. The beauty of floral chakram motifs lies within their intricacy. gleaming with gold and silver zari artistry, Poo Chakram has conquered its place in our top pick of Kanjivaram motifs. 

 Rudraksham- Rudraksha

Rudraksham

The Rudraksha is reckoned as Lord Shiva's tears which have the power to end suffering and heal illnesses. The rudraksha motif looks flawless when woven along the border of a saree as a complement to the central thematic design. Sometimes bigger rudraksha motifs are woven in the body as buttis too. Kanjivaram sarees are the emblem of time, and the rudraksha motifs put them on the pinnacle by describing the mythological stories into a craft and patterns.

  Iruthalai Pakshi/Ganda Perunda - The Two Headed Bird

iruthalai pakshi

Iruthalai Pakshi is believed to be a mighty celestial bird with two heads monitoring all directions. It has deep-rooted mythological significance and is referred to as Gandabherunda. Iruthalai Pakshi is a symbol of triumph and glory and has been a part of Kanjivaram motifs since the time immemorial.

Thazhampoo Reku

thazhampoo essence

The thazhampoo (Screw pine) is a fragrant bloom with sharp petals found along the river banks in Tamil Nadu. It is considered one of the most sacred designs or motifs used by the weavers of Kanchipuram. The temple motif consists of a series of large triangles woven along the border of the entire saree giving an impression of the Gopurams, a ceremonial gateway to the temple. This sacred motif gathers a divine vibrancy around you.

 

Kanjivaram sarees have broken the fences of time. This eternal beauty is a true character of purity. You can identify Kanchipuram silk saree just by looking at it. The real Kanjivaram saree has a beautiful blend of colors and thick fabric. The gold zari work will not fade away, and if you burn the loose threads of the saree, the remaining ash will smell like burnt leather or hair.


Singhanias saree is the household name for authentic handloom Kanjivaram sarees. We have curated each and every Kanjivaram saree with love and as a tribute to our culture. With us, you can buy all varieties of Kanjivaram sarees, Kanchipuram silk sarees without zari, Kanchipuram silk sarees with stone work, sarees for every occasion, and sarees that feel pleased while dazzling the world.