Why Is Kerala's Traditional Kasavu Saree Always White And Gold? It Wasn't Always Just For Onam

When you think about the festival of Onam, you can easily picture women dressed in beautiful traditional white and gold sarees. Even though it is one of the most common sarees, have you ever wondered why it is always gold and white? It is more than a fashion choice, and it is also not just made for Onam. The history behind the classic kasavu sarees goes back to 500 years ago.

Reason behind the white and gold colour of Kerala's traditional Kasavu saree:

For the unversed, Kasavu literally means 'saree with golden border' and comes from old Malayalam words. It refers to the zari used in the border of the Kerala saree.

Use of white and gold:

1. The reason behind the use of white colour in these sarees is that it usually symbolises purity, peace, and simplicity. Moreover, white is also suitable for the hot and humid climate of Kerala and a comfortable fabric like cotton is used to make these sarees.
2. In the older days, white colour was also used because it was the natural colour of handloom cotton.
3. Coming to gold colour, the original Kasavu border originally used pure gold zari as it symbolised wealth and royalty.

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History of Kasavu:

1. The art of making kasavu saree reportedly goes back to the Buddhist era and was worn by both women and men.
2. It is also believed that Maharaja Avattam Thirunal Balaramavarma and his concubine Ummini Thambi popularised kasavu in Kerala in the 19th century.
3. Earlier, there was no concept of a modern saree in Kerala, but it was traditional mundu-veshti. 
4. Over time, fashion evolved, and kasavu became a single-piece saree rather than the original two-piece garment.
5. Even though the kasavu saree and the white and gold colour are often linked to the auspicious festival of Onam, it can be worn at other festival and weddings too.

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How have Kasavu sarees evolved?

The classic gold and white combination in sarees has evolved over the years. As the kasavu saree traditionally has heavy handlooms, it has now seen the blend of shimmering tissue-silk and lightweight cotton designs for comfort.
Meanwhile, you will even see the floral print and different colours in the kasavu saree, like pink, blue or yellow.

Conclusion:

For Kerala, kasavu is not just a type of saree, but it is a tradition and heritage with a rich history that goes back over five centuries. Although it has evolved several times over the years, the artistry and elegance remain the same.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)
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