TALES 》 Kasavu (Kerala) Saree

Mind blowing nature, abundant coconut trees, endless backyard greenery, peppercorns, famous backwaters, lush tea and rubber plantation, elegant houseboats, simple and hospitable smile, coffee, cardamom, Kalaripayattu the martial arts, Kutiyattam (theater art), elephants, thundering Kathakali classical Indian dance, Pookalam, coastal foods, Ayurveda, thick forest, richest temples in the world, highest literacy rate in India, traditional taste-bud-tingling cuisine, Naalukettu houses, temple festivals, gigantic western ghats yes it's known as God's Own Country, Kerala!

Kerala a state situated on the tropical Malabar Coast of southwestern India. Kerala historically known as Keralam. Malayalis are the native people of Kerala who speak Malayalam, the official language of the state. Kerala is bestowed with a pleasant and equable climate through out the year. Ancient 5000 year old medical science called Ayurveda orginated in Kerala. One popular theory derives Kerala from Kera (coconut tree in Malayalam) and alam is land, thus land of coconuts. Ultimate heaven for laid back tourist to enjoy pleasant greenery.

Richest and divine hindu temple in the world called Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (deity Vishnu) is situated in Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala state capital). The lord Vishnu in this temple is in posture Anantha Shayanam. Variety of dishes traditionally served on a banana leaf in Kerala called Sadhya means banquet in Malayalam. Traditional colorful piece of art called as Pookalam called in regional language Malayali, which literally means colorful flower Rangoli. The people of Kerala are the most simple people and very down to earth. They like to live in their own world of simplicity and originality. They are known as Keralites, since they are natives of Kerala. Rich in culture and traditional, temple dances thunder in night. Fishing is a way of life in the coast.

Shopping in Kerala makes for a delightful experience and souvenirs. Perfect blend of products and offers a shopping experience, here are few you should not miss. Bagging tea & coffee is an important part of shopping in Kerala, aromatic oils and essence, King of Spices pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, cashewnuts, jewellery, Uru Models, Handicrafts, Kasavu Saree(Kerala Saree), Kathakali Mask, Sea Shell Showpieces, Wooden Idols, Nettipattom, Taste buding 'plantain chips' or also known as 'Banana chips' you should not miss it, this snack is deep fried in coconut oil and taste excellent. Nilavilakku (Traditional Lamp), Wooden pestle, Nettur Casket (Nettoor Petti), Mural Painting (Temple Painting), Aranmula Kannadi, Coir Products, Coconut Shell Handicrafts and pure gold ornaments.

Kerala Kasavu (a.k.a Kerala sari) which was originally known as Mundum Neryathum. You can see more prominent colors such as white, half white, beige and ivory in Kerala Kasavu sarees. White and gold is always considered as a traditional combination. Kasavu saree is a must, during important occasions particularly during festivals and religious event.

Kasavu saree have special reputation all over India and globe, for it's fineness unbleached cotton handloom count natural colors, texture and gold borders. Simple and sober sarees are available in Cotton and silk sarees as well. Golden border is either pure golden layer, copper coated or artificial. Women in Kerala traditionally used to wear a two piece cloth named ‘settu mundu’, also known as ‘mundum neriyathum’ with natural body color and golden or numerous other shades in border, which when worn, exactly look like a saree.

Main body of this saree is either plain or handcrafted with traditional motifs such as flowers, peacocks, mangoes and Swan etc. Pallu which is a main highlight of the saree. The cost of the saree depends on the master-work done on the pallu. The intricate depicts Hindu mythology such as Mahabharata and Ramayana in the pallu region or even floral patterns. Based on the current trends, designers have crafted these sarees by adding embellishments like thread work, stones or sequins, fabric painting and contrasting colors. Well-designed border gives a royal and unique appeal. If you are connoisseur than you should have a piece of handcrafted Kerala Kasavu sarees in your closet.

Fabric care for Kasavu cotton saree
Do check out for specific care instructions on the garment once you purchase and follow the instructions carefully, it addition to it, here are certain guidelines

• One can give for dry clean
• If washing at home, than use mild detergent(delicate mode wash cycle) at home, and if their are any embellishments in the saree better not to wash in washing machine rather give for dry cleaning
• Never squeeze or wring the fabric
• Once wash cycle is done, dry these sarees in a shade, dyes might start to fade under direct sunlight
• One can definitely starch the saree as well
• Ironing is a must to remove wrinkles from fabric, in a medium-high heat
• Avoid storing these sarees in polythene bags