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An all-over patterned Paithani sareeImage: NBMSSILKSAREE · CC0
MAHARASHTRA · AN ANCIENT DECCAN SILK TRADITION

Paithani

Lustrous silk distinguished by jewel colours, tapestry-woven pallus and celebrated peacock and lotus imagery.

The story

Named for Paithan on the Godavari, Paithani has long been associated with Deccan courts, temple patronage and Maharashtrian ceremonies. Yeola later became another major weaving centre, helping the tradition continue across generations.

How it is made

The body is woven in silk while borders and pallus use a discontinuous-weft tapestry technique. Multiple coloured silk and zari threads are interlocked by hand to build motifs, making elaborate examples especially time-intensive.

Materials and character

Fine silk and zari create a rich, reversible-looking surface. Contemporary quality varies with silk, zari composition, motif complexity and the amount of handwork.

Why it matters

A treasured Maharashtrian wedding and heirloom saree whose pallu preserves a distinctive Deccan design vocabulary.