Syaahi Mangalagiri Silk Handpainted Garnet Red Dupatta

What scenes are painted on it?

The cream ground is crowded with painted figures, many of them holding drums, drawn in green, red, blue and pink with touches of orange and purple. It reads like a lively procession running the full length. The figures are large, so the story-like scene is easy to see when the dupatta is draped open.

Will such a busy design overpower my outfit?

It is a statement piece, so let it lead. Wear it over a solid kurta in one of its colours, such as green, blue or red, and keep the rest of the look plain. Despite the busy painting, the dupatta looks light on the body because of its cream base and slim edge.

Is it long enough to wear over both shoulders?

Yes. It is about 2.4 to 2.5 metres long and 35 to 36 inches wide, which leaves room for a two-shoulder drape, a one-side pleated drape or a loose throw around the neck. The slim blue edge with a gold line keeps the sides neat in any style.

Is the painting really done by hand?

Yes, the work on this dupatta is hand painting on Mangalagiri cotton silk. You may notice small irregularities in line thickness or colour fill when you look closely. That is the mark of a brush, not a machine, and no two pieces turn out exactly alike.

How do I care for it?

Gentle hand wash only, and always separately from other clothes. Avoid scrubbing the painted figures. Dry it in shade, and store it folded loosely in a cotton cloth rather than pressed into sharp creases.