What is Pattu Saree and what’s so special about them?
Pattu means silk in South India. When people say Pattu saree, they usually mean a pure silk saree, not mixed or artificial. These sarees are woven from high-quality mulberry silk and are known for their strength, natural sheen, and smooth finish.
Pattu sarees are famous in states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. Every region weaves them differently, with distinct colours, borders, motifs, and weaving styles.
What Makes Pattu Sarees Special?
1. Pure Silk Quality
Pattu sarees are made from the best grade mulberry silk. This silk gives them strength and weight. When you hold a genuine Pattu saree, it feels rich, firm, and warm to the touch.
2. Real Zari Work
Many Pattu sarees, especially Kanchipuram ones, are woven with real gold or silver zari. Zari is a silk thread covered with fine metal — it makes the border and pallu shine. Real zari does not chip or fade easily.
3. Traditional Motifs
Pattu sarees carry classic South Indian motifs — peacocks, temple borders, elephants, mangoes, rudraksha beads. These designs have been used for centuries and are part of the culture.
4. Handwoven Art
Most Pattu sarees are still woven by hand. Skilled weavers make these sarees on traditional looms. It takes days or weeks to complete one saree. Each piece is slightly different — no two are exactly alike.
5. Durability
A genuine Pattu saree lasts for decades if cared for properly. The silk does not tear or wear out easily. Older sarees are often passed down as heirlooms.
Types of Pattu Sarees
1. Kanchipuram Pattu
Heavy silk. Big borders. Bright colours. Perfect for weddings.
2. Uppada Pattu
Lightweight. Soft. Woven with small designs or plain body.
3. Pochampally Pattu
Ikat designs. Geometric patterns. Bright shades.
4. Dharmavaram Pattu
Muted shades. Temple motifs. Broad borders.
5. Mysore Pattu
Simple. Single colour. Soft finish. Used for daily wear.
6. Gadwal Pattu
Silk body and zari border. Lightweight. Easy to drape.
7. Arani Pattu
Soft silk. Affordable. Simple zari work.
8. Narayanpet Pattu
Checks and stripes. Light silk. Small borders.
Why Are Pattu Sarees Popular?
1. Wedding Wear
In South India, no wedding is complete without Pattu sarees. Brides wear rich Kanchipuram or Uppada sarees. Family members and guests also pick Pattu for these occasions.
2. Festival Clothing
Pongal, Diwali, Ugadi — Pattu sarees are the first choice for festivals. The bright colours and rich feel match the celebration mood.
3.Religious Ceremonies
Temple visits, house warming, baby showers — Pattu sarees are worn at all important events. The traditional motifs suit these occasions well.
4. Heritage Value
Some families keep old Pattu sarees as heirlooms. They are given as gifts to daughters or daughters-in-law during marriage.
What to Check Before Buying Pattu Saree
1. Silk Mark Certification
Genuine Pattu sarees come with a Silk Mark tag. This means the silk is pure and tested.
2. Zari Quality
Check if the zari is real (made with silver or gold thread) or imitation (plastic thread). Real zari costs more but lasts longer.
3. Weight and Feel
Real Pattu sarees are heavier than synthetic ones. They feel warm and smooth.
4. Weaving Details
Look for clean joins, sharp motifs, smooth borders. Handmade sarees have small irregularities — that shows they are real.
How to Maintain Pattu Sarees
1. Dry Clean Only
Avoid washing at home. Always dry clean.
2. Proper Folding
Refold every few months. Avoid folding along the same lines.
3. Use Muslin Bags
Store in breathable cotton or muslin covers. Never in plastic.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Dry in shade. Sunlight weakens silk.
5. Iron with Care
Low heat. Use cotton cloth on top. Avoid direct heat on zari.
Mavuri’s Pattu Saree Collection
Mavuri offers:
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Kanchipuram Pattu
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Uppada Pattu
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Pochampally Pattu
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Gadwal Pattu
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Banarasi Pattu
All are Silk Mark certified. Real silk. Traditional weaves.
How Pattu Sarees Differ from Other Silk Sarees
1. Weight
Pattu sarees are heavier due to pure silk.
2. Durability
Lasts longer than soft or blended silk sarees.
3. Cultural Value
Used in South Indian customs. Carries heritage.
4. Zari Work
More real zari compared to light designer silks.
Cost Range of Pattu Sarees
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Basic Uppada: ₹5,000–₹15,000
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Kanchipuram: ₹10,000–₹1,50,000
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Pochampally: ₹7,000–₹20,000
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Gadwal: ₹8,000–₹25,000
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Dharmavaram: ₹15,000–₹80,000
Prices depend on silk grade, zari purity, handwork.
Pattu sarees are not just clothing. They are a part of tradition. They hold value beyond price. A good Pattu saree stays for years, sometimes generations. The real silk, handwoven feel, rich borders, and timeless designs make them special.
For festivals, weddings, or heritage, a Pattu saree fits well — without trend or season limits.
Mavuri offers authentic Pattu sarees — from pure silk sources, by real weavers, carrying true value.
