Silkmark Tussar Kinetic Madhubani Blue & Red Saree

What does the pallu show?

The pallu is densely printed with multicolour village and bird scenes in beige, green and pink. The body is a slate blue with tiny, sparse butis, and a red border with a painted strip runs along the edge. The blue is muted, so the red border and busy pallu do the talking.

Which blouse colours suit slate blue and red?

The attached pallu-coloured blouse keeps it coordinated. For contrast, a red blouse picks up the border and warms the muted blue, while mustard adds a festive note. A black blouse looks sharp for an office party, and silver jewellery suits the slate blue.

What does the Silkmark on it actually guarantee?

Silkmark is the purity label of the Silk Mark Organisation of India. Here it certifies that the fabric is genuine tussar silk, not a blend or a synthetic look-alike. It speaks to the fibre; the Madhubani print and the colours are a separate matter of hand craft.

What does the block-printing process involve?

Artisans first carve the Madhubani-inspired designs into wooden blocks. Each block is then dipped in colour and pressed onto the tussar by hand, one impression after another along the length. It is slow, careful work, and it gives the print its slightly organic, hand-made edge.

Does tussar have a shine?

It has a natural sheen. Tussar comes from the cocoons of wild silkworms and is prized for its rich texture and that natural sheen, and this saree has a gentle slub texture. With the Madhubani print over it, the look is rich and textured rather than glossy.

Can I wash it at home?

No. The care is dry clean only, so leave the cleaning to a dry cleaner who handles silk. Keep perfume and sprays off the printed areas, store it in its own bag in a dry place, and if it ever gets damp, dry it in the shade.