Prakash Varatharajan – craft close-up

Prakash Varatharajan

GI-tagged Handloom

Prakash Varatharajan

Prakash Varatharajan is a skilled artisan from Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, with over 35 years of experience. His dedication to traditional craftsmanship has helped preserve the rich weaving and artisanal heritage of Kanchipuram

The Artisan

Mr. Prakash Varatharajan is an experienced artisan from Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, with over 35 years of experience in his craft. Through decades of dedicated practice, he has developed extensive knowledge and skills, contributing to the continuation of traditional craftsmanship and the preservation of Kanchipuram's rich cultural and artisanal heritage

Artisan – Prakash Varatharajan

The Craft

Kanchipuram sarees are traditionally handwoven using pure mulberry silk and zari on fly-shuttle pit looms. The silk yarn is treated with rice water and sun-dried before weaving. Three-ply silk yarn creates the body, while the Korvai technique precisely interlocks the body, contrasting borders, and pallu into a seamless, durable saree.

Craft – Prakash Varatharajan

The Place

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a renowned silk-weaving cluster with a long-established handloom tradition. More than 5,000 families are involved in producing Kanchipuram silk sarees, supported by skilled weavers and allied workers engaged in warping, spinning, twisting, dyeing, and weaving. The cluster is particularly known for its distinctive silk and zari craftsmanship.

Place – Prakash Varatharajan

The Product

Kanchipuram silk sarees are the primary products of the cluster, celebrated for their lustrous mulberry silk, intricate zari work, contrasting borders, and elaborate pallus. Traditionally worn for weddings and festive occasions, these sarees feature temple-inspired motifs, checks, stripes, and floral designs, reflecting the region's rich weaving heritage and craftsmanship.

Product – Prakash Varatharajan
Kanchipuram, Tamil NaduOrigin
Pure Mulberry Silk & ZariMaterial
Handloom WeavingTechnique
Master ArtisanRecognition

Story behind the Craft

Kanchipuram silk weaving has an ancient heritage rooted in South Indian culture. According to Hindu mythology, Kanchi weavers are descendants of Sage Markanda, believed to be the master weaver of the Gods. Over generations, the craft became deeply associated with weddings, temples, royalty, and the cultural identity of Kanchipuram.

Contact : +91 8122749823