TALES 》 Muga Silk Sarees from Assam, India

The rich heritage, Prestigious and ageless silk, the Muga

Located on the banks of mighty river Brahmaputra, from few years back Sualkuchi Handloom industry is center for weaving and labor intensive industry for weaving and encompasses cotton textile, silk textile and Khadi fabrics as well and known as the Manchester of the East, Kamrup district of Assam. Sualkuchi is heavenly kingdom for weaving and the looms are found in almost very home in the villages of Assam and depending on the design, patterns and complexity it would take around six or more days to weave one beautiful masterpiece saree. The economy of this place is mainly dependent of handlooms, not only Tanti community of Tantipara are weaving this craft but also other communities like Garo community of Assam, fishermen and Brahmin communities also are engaged in weaving, the official languages are Assamese, Bodo and Bengali and renowned for Assam tea and Assam silk.

Its name is derived from Assamese word Muga, which means yellow. Among many products granted under geographical indication(GI) protection, Muga silk is also added to the list and GI logo for trademark purposes in the year 2014. Number of Muga looms in those days, were under royal supervision and hence, Muga was also known as the Rajaghoria (royal) looms.

One can see different varieties of silks from this place namely

• Prestigious Muga silk
• Eri or also known as Endi or Erandi silk
• Pat silk or Mulberry silk of Assam
• Tassar silk

Muga silk
Is one of the product and variety of wild silk, the oldest and most famous type of silk in Assam, the natural yellowish-golden tint was once reserved only for royalty and best Known for extreme durability, shimmering and glossy texture.

Pat silk or Mulberry silk of Assam
Is one of the product and variety of domestic silk in Assam, bright white or off-white in color and best known for its durability and glossy texture.

Muga silk can be used in varies applications namely traditional dress of Assam known as Mekhela chadar Muga silk tops, Muga silk skirts, Muga silk shirts, Muga silk kurtis, Muga silk shawls, Muga silk home furnishings products, Muga silk mens and womens jackets, Muga silk stoles, Muga silk Umbrella, Muga silk Tie, Muga silk ladies clutchs, Muga silk bedcovers, Muga silk bed sheets window and door screens, Muga silk Wall hanging, Muga silk sarees, Muga silk maxis, Muga silk salwar, Dupattas and dress materials, Muga silk hats, Muga silk quilts, Muga silk blankets & mattresses and finally Muga silk curtain & Pillow covers are few diverse products availble, many products are been in demand from past many years and are exported countries like UK, Malaysia, USA, Japan and Germany.