Gadwal Sarees

Gadwal sarees are an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Indian state of Telangana. They are known as Pooja Sarees by local women who wear them for religious festivals and traditional functions. The history of these sarees dates back to about 200 years ago, when the present-day township of Gadwal was the capital of a small kingdom, locally called as a “Samasthanam”. The Maharani of the said kingdom, Adhi Lakshmi Devamma, promoted the craft with the help of weavers who had migrated to Gadwal from various coastal areas. Initially, the sarees were called Mathiampeta, but eventually came to be known as Gadwal Sarees.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Gadwal Sarees is that they are hand-woven using traditional techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. The sarees undergo thorough inspection for quality by the Master Weaver, who has expert knowledge in all aspects of making Gadwal Sarees. The Master Weaver is a person who has expert knowledge in all aspects relating to the process of making Gadwal Sarees, which include the critical art of visualizing design, layout, orientation, and intricacy in the body, border, and pallu of the saree. Only upon the personal inspection of the Master Weaver are the materials made ready for the market.

The uniqueness of Gadwal Sarees lies in their handloom weaving and the horizontal joining of the threads of the body with the threads of the pallu of the saree. This process requires a high degree of skill and experience, and is performed by skilled artisans who have spent years perfecting their craft. In addition to their unique features, Gadwal Sarees are also known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, which are inspired by the local flora and fauna of the region.