Karvath Kathi Sari Weaving of Maharashtra

The Karvath Kati sarees a symbol of celebration and prosperity originates from the Vidharbha region of Maharashtra. Worn at auspicious rituals and at weddings they are also traditionally worn by the Vidharbha bride. This traditional saree is called Karvat Kati due to its unique saw-edged pattern on the border. The bodice of the sari also contains designs resembling the saw teeth pattern. The weavers have adapted these designs from the sculptures seen at the famous Ramtek temple in the region. Hence, besides its cultural significance, the motifs and patterns make the garment auspicious in itself. These sarees are handcrafted using tussar silk which is sourced from Vidharbha, Nagpur, Bhandara and Gondia regions. They are woven on pit looms using three fly shuttles of different colored yarns and are a testament of the mastery of weavers. Today, the weavers of the Karvat Kati pattern have expanded their repertoire beyond sarees to include shirting, dress materials and dupattas.

Traditional Sari woven by local weavers in small village of Maharashtra. it got its name from the border which has the typical “saw tooth”/karvathi pattern. Generally worn during ritual and functions. The Tasar Karvati Sari is woven with three shuttle weaving (tapestry type of weaving technique) to have solid colour border and body. The border is woven with mercerized cotton yarn and body is woven with pure tasar hand reeled yarn. The Sari is woven on pit loom mounted with Nagpuri wooden lattice dobby on the top of the loom above the weaver’s seat. The uniqueness of the Tassar Karvati Sari is that, the border of the sari is woven with various temple design in different sizes. The traditional motifs are woven withe extra warp threads controlled by lattice dobby.