A Deep-Dive into the World of Tussar Silk Saree

Tussar silk, also referred to as ‘Wild Silk’, is an exquisite thread obtained from a moth that is yellowish-brown in color. The scientific name of this moth is Antheraea Paphia. These moths are part of the group called Emperor Moths and Satumids. There shouldn’t be any doubt that these moths are a true wonder of nature. The wings of these moths have circular markings which look like a mirror. So, when you look closely, you are able to see your reflection. 

Origin & history

The Sanskrit of Kosa Silk is desi tussar. It is mainly produced in India. Tussar has a natural gold color which makes it valuable. As far as the story of the origin of tussar silk is concerned, there is very little data available. Taking stories from the history of raw silk, we can say that tussar silk was discovered in medieval times. Prior to that, historians didn’t find any trace of silk which is being made out of any other natural or artificial object instead of mulberry-fed silk.
 
The price difference between tussar silk and other forms of silk happens from the fact that tussar silk is not fed on mulberry leaves. In fact, the rearing of tussar silk worms makes a tussar silk saree a cheaper variety. However, it doesn’t make it less illustrious.

Sources of Inspiration

Tussar saree is a lot more textured compared to mulberry silk. Tussar silk is used for the creation of tussar silk sarees and silk suits. Indian attires inspired by India’s heritage and culture easily take shape in tussar silk. It radiates a dull gold texture. It works as a suitable base for embroideries as well as print motifs that are heavily nature-inspired. The floral patterns, as well as the shapes of trees, buds, leaves, and leaflets, are strong enough to spark creativity and serve as a source of inspiration for tussar silk.

The artisans

India is the main producer of tussar silk with Jharkhand being its main state. Production of tussar silk is considered a rural art. Traditionally, women coming from tribal and rural areas were trained in weaving fabrics out of threads and hence obtained. Like most other textile arts, tussar also was modernized and machines came into play.

The tussar silk industry extensively uses rural and tribal labor. The women who get absorbed by the industry are trained to produce silk. It takes around 3 days to finish a single 10-meter tussar silk cloth. So you can calculate how many tussar silk saree an artisan creates in a month. We sell tussar silk saree in different price ranges. It entirely depends on the production process. 

Varieties

Tussar is itself a variety of silk. Tussar silk is generally divided into four categories such as Katia, Ghhichha, Thigh Reeled, and Machine Reeled. If you do more permutations and combinations of these varieties, two distinct varieties named tussar ghichha and mulberry ghiccha are obtained.

Wearing the attire

Tussar silk has a lot more texture compared to any other variety of silk. The fabric is also cooler than the other varieties. It is a lot more porous, thus, breathable. As it is cooler, compared to other varieties of silk, it has a lot of following in the warmer parts of the world.

Maintenance

When it comes to the maintenance of tussar silk, you should know that this fabric is not difficult to maintain. You need to take care of two things. First, you need to prevent any kind of stains. Second, tussar silk should be prevented from losing its sheen and luster. You should iron tussar sarees and also dry-clean them once every three months. This ensures that your ensemble will never lose its freshness.

The tussar silk saree represents the Indian woman. When we think of an Indian woman we visualize a woman wearing a saree. In India, you can find a rich variety of natural fibers that can be only found in India. These fibers help to create the finest fabrics in the world. Indian tussar silk has worldwide recognition. Tussar silk saree from Bengal is also popular across India and worldwide. These sarees give an elegant and sophisticated traditional look. 

Conclusion

A tussar silk saree is an elegant choice of a woman. It has an unexampled epitome of delicacy partnered with rich texture attributes and natural impression. India is one of the richest when it comes to tussar silk saree. No matter how modern the world becomes, the popularity for tussar silk sarees outgrows the modernity and fast paces. Though tussar silk sarees come at high prices, it is everyone’s favorite. Barring sarees, this fabric is also used in suits, kurta, scarf, dupatta, shirting and more. A tussar silk saree in your wardrobe means as a woman you’ve done something in your life.