The History of Silk Sarees in India : A Journey Through the Ages
29 July 2024
Silk sarees have a captivating history in India, playing a vital role in reckoning the cultural heritage of this diverse nation. As we take a look at the rich antiquity of this luxurious garment the history of Indian textiles will surely unfold. The reason for the admiration of the silk sarees is its adaptability. Silk is a naturally derived protein fabric that maintains its texture and has great absorbency. It is non slippery unlike synthetic fabrics and highly compatible with any yarn which makes it perfect for blending. There are cotton silk blend sarees along with zari, which is a silk saree mixed with metallic yarn. Such stunning effects on silk sarees make it the most liked saree of all. Silk sarees are very much loved in India and adopted by various cultural groups. Multiple weaving styles and techniques can be seen in several regions. The Mughals and Persians influenced the silk culture in India. A combination of cultural weaving and foreign techniques led to this unique art form. Every region has its native silk saree mostly hand-woven saree paired with cotton or zari.
Guru Purnima 2026: Date, Puja Timings, History, Rituals & Significance
13 July 2024
Guru Purnima, celebrated on 29 July 2026, honors spiritual and academic teachers across Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. Observed on the full moon of Ashadha month, it commemorates Ved Vyasa’s birth, Lord Buddha’s first sermon, and Mahavira’s teachings. The day symbolizes gratitude toward one’s guru, the remover of ignorance, and a renewal of one’s spiritual and moral journey toward wisdom and enlightenment.
The Magic of Mirrors in Home Decor: A Bold Design Statement
12 July 2024
Mirrors have a transforming power when it comes to changing the perspective of a space. Using mirrors in your home in the right way can broaden the field of vision and provide any space with a feeling of spaciousness by enhancing the architectural elements. Mirrors are usually meant to serve the basic requirement of grooming and appearance check, but in addition to being a useful component, they also have some aesthetic value, and power to allure the vibe of the interior space they are placed in.
The Allure of the Kasavu Saree: A Timeless Tradition in Modern Times
10 July 2024
India is a land full of heritage and rich textile traditions consisting of various regional classifications of people. Every state has its own culture and unique skills, providing a vast and diversified spread of cultural knowledge and upliftment. There were a variety of factors that influenced the significance of textile and cultural heritage back in the time, Mughal era, British Raj, post-independence era, as well as the emerging contemporary trends are some of the leading justifications for that. Through all of it, Indian heritage is rooted deep in the beliefs and values of our ethnic legacy. The textile of India consists of a variety of materials that are derived from natural and synthetic fabrics like cotton, silk, and wool jute, which are then weaved and sewed into graceful pieces of clothing. Apart from that, a variety of crafts and skills like hand embroidery, dyeing, chikankari, etc, are still practiced and appreciated in several parts of the country.
Friendship Day Gift Ideas: Show your Appreciation as a Friend
9 July 2024
Friendship Day is a day to celebrate your friendships with your chums, to relive the moments that you shared, and most importantly a day to cherish a never-ending bond that you have created along the way. Friendships are never planned, they are undoubtedly the most unexpected thing to ever take place, it is a pure and innocent bond between the two individuals. What starts as a simple bond ends up being a ride-or-die. From being out on crazy day-outs, bunking and sneaking out of a class, to the lowest of times friends have seen it all. They are someone who knows you inside out, far more than your blood relations but still never end up judging you for who you are and that is what we call a true friendship. Let’s showcase our appreciation towards our friends by delivering thoughtful friendship day gifts to them right from our hearts in the form of little tokens of love. Here we have a list of unique gifting options for friends to cater to the liking of your fussiest of companions which you can choose from that will surely make friendship day a memorable one for you and your buddies.
How to Incorporate Antique-looking Artifacts into Modern Decor : Historic and Ancient Additions
5 July 2024
A home should be a collective representation of the things you find meaningful and love which helps spread an ambiance throughout the space that will end up being a good combination between the old and new which will surely provide a fresh and different look rather than a shabby one. Rustic pieces have been appreciated lately as a collector's item for some and decor for many, whatever your reason might be, antiques are a great way of portraying detailed craftsmanship into a modern design. There is a huge variety of finds that one can look for to add more uniqueness and jazz to your space without thinking much about it. Let’s look for ways to incorporate textured artifacts into your already existing modern decor.
Decor Ideas to Help your Home Stay Fresh, all through the Rains
4 July 2024
Monsoon is a special time of year, a season that delivers a wave of relief and happiness. After an extended summer, the monsoon arrives. Most likely, the rainy season might be the time to unwind and take advantage of the cooler weather for some. However, the rains always bring back nostalgia and a sense of comfort. Standing on our balconies looking at the prolonged shower of rain pouring down from the sky and drenching everything that comes in contact with it, the earthy essence of the soil that smells like nothing but calmness and nostalgia, tiny little birdies hiding under a roof shaking water off their quill, are some of the little things that bring joy to many. Even though it feels awesome to do so, keeping our doors and windows open to enjoy the weather for a longer time often leads to several drawbacks like foul smell, dirt, and even musty clothes. Rain can take a toll on us very easily leaving behind an unpleasant environment across your home, so here are several tips regarding home decor ideas and living room inspiration that you can follow to keep your space fresh and well-maintained while you are busy soaking in the monsoon feels.
Regional Drapes with Global Appeal - Bomkai, Bandhani, Baluchari and More
3 July 2024
Indian sarees for centuries have been a source of inspiration for fashion designers and artists, who have looked at this flowing ancient garment time and again to find refreshing ideas of design, fit, and motif. Silk and cotton drapes of India have been cherished the world over for their regal and refined look. However, the regional drapes, and sarees from different states of India, originating in the local tradition of these regions are equally enchanting. Blending comfort and timeless elegance, these regional drapes today have a global appeal, thanks to the effortless feminine grace they offer. This blog takes a look at a few historic regional drapes, and will answer a few questions to help you understand what makes them a gem in the ever-changing modern world of style.
What, How and When of Indian Sarees: Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Maintaining Sarees
2 July 2024
No matter what the weather and occasion, the Indian saree today is a timeless statement of style in world fashion. From bureaucrats to film stars and from the office-going ladies to the women who hustle hard at home, the saree adorns everyone irrespective of their position, nationality, age, and the task they are engaged in. Thus, it would not be an exaggeration to say that sarees are the ideal clothing option for all. And why not? With the variety in material, pattern, weave, colors, and the innumerable ways of draping that a saree offers, it is bound to be a cherished go-to clothing choice. Still, the sheer number of options can also be confusing. Which saree to wear? What is the best saree for a wedding? Which saree is good for festivals? And what about the formal, office wear sarees? Well, allow us to handle your questions. This blog is your guide to everything that the world of sarees has to offer. We will talk about the best wedding sarees and the best casual, formal drapes. We will also give you a few tips to accessorize and style your saree.
Banarasi, Kanjivaram, Paithani: Silk Drapes of Queens
24 June 2024
Silk and festivity are virtually synonymous when it comes to traditional Indian fashion. Loved by the royals, both men and women, silk with its smooth feel, shimmering look and intricate embellishment speaks for the luxurious persona of the wearer, making it a classic choice when it comes to celebrations and important occasions even in modern times. Every state in India has its own way of crafting silk ensembles, sarees being the most cherished and popular one of all. From the Banarasi of northern India to Kanjivaram of the South, silk drapes are something that is beyond mere fashion. They are blessings of the elders for the young bride, they are an emotional heirloom between mother and daughter and they are a gem in the collection of a connoisseur-collector. There is something timeless and trendy about every silk saree.
How to Clean Brass Statues at Home – Easy Care Tips for Lasting Shine
22 June 2024
According to the Vedic custom, after the Prana Pratishtha ceremony which involves many rituals to invoke the presence of God inside the deities. The deities then become non-different from the actual personality of God. However, some devotional statues which have not undergone the ritualistic ceremony are kept for decoration and admiration purposes in the houses of Hindus. In this blog, you will learn cleaning and maintenance tips for your Hindu God brass statues.
Spiritual Home Temple Decor: Creating A Perfect Sacred Space
21 June 2024
As one browses through an online collection of statues, the options for spiritual decor are many, so many that the process of finding the perfect idol for your decor becomes a difficult task. What is the right material, what is the ideal icon, what size should one pick? The questions are many, but lucky for you, you have come to the right place. We will start unpacking the questions, beginning with the points to keep in mind when getting a sacred statue for home decor. You should understand the symbolism and powers of each deity and their aspects before getting their statue for your home. Ganesha for example brings fortune, but there are certain forms of the god such as Chaturbhuja with Mooshak and Modak which are especially auspicious and powerful for home.
Which are the best types of Kurtas to be Worn in the Summer?
5 June 2024
Wearing an ethnic outfit during summer often seems impossible and uncomfortable. But at Exotic India Art, we assure you the comfort you need to beat the heat of the scorching summer and be able to make a unique style statement. Kurta Pajamas, highly suited to all weather conditions, have now undergone a fashion revamp - distinct designs, lengths, sleeves, and embellishments to add a touch of flair to the ensemble. In the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, the dress of choice for most men is the Kurta Pajama complemented with a Pagri (turban) or a Gamcha over the shoulders.
Father's Day Special: Gifts I Got from My Father
4 June 2024
“Pitru Devo Bhava”- the father is equivalent to gods, is a verse from the Hindu text- Taittiriya Upanishad. When I look at my father, there is nothing God-like in his appearance. No golden crown, extra hands, powerful weapons, nothing extra-terrestrial about him. But the scriptures also say we are all created by God. If that is the case, looking at my life today, I am certain that it was created by my father. And how can you say anything about the person who has made you who you are, who has protected you but also let you be free and discover the world on your own, what can you say about the person who has created you?
The Perfect Gifts for Saying Happy Father's Day
31 May 2024
Helping you paddle your cycle for the first time, always waiting by the school gate in the afternoon, or bringing your favorite snack from the market, a father is one of the biggest gifts of life. A protector in childhood, a guide in adolescence, and a friend in youth, fathers have a huge role in making us the people we are, shaping us with their love and experience of life, and deserve all the celebration and surprise gifts we are planning for them this Father’s Day!
Cotton Sarees: The Indian Way to Look “Cool” This Summer
23 May 2024
Available in a mind-boggling variety of everyday and formal wear in the contemporary world, the best and most popular cotton clothing is the cotton saree, a simple, wearable piece of history that has lived through eras and continues to be the symbol of Indian culture and feminine fashion in the world. All over the country, weavers and craftsmen have developed their unique technique of weaving cotton into a graceful drape, giving rise to a marvelous variety of cotton sarees to choose from.
Significance of Vat-Savitri Vrat - A Celebration of Matrimonial Bliss
18 May 2024
Vat Savitri Vrat is a sacred Hindu observance where married women fast and worship the Banyan tree for their husband’s long life and protection. Inspired by the devotion of Savitri, who saved Satyavan from Yama, the vrat includes tying a sacred thread around the tree and offering prayers. Celebrated on Jyeshtha Amavasya or Purnima, it highlights faith, resilience, and the spiritual strength of marriage. Explore the meaning of Vat Savitri Vrat, the story of Savitri–Satyavan, and the 2026 Puja timings. Understand why married women fast and worship the Banyan tree for blessings.
Is Saree A Hindu Tradition? A Complete Story of Sarees Becoming Popular In Indian Culture
14 May 2024
While the saree is considered the attire for women in Indian culture, it dates back many centuries ago when the Vedic or Hindu tradition was prevalent in the entire world. Indian Women wore pure handloom sarees and this encouraged the textile industry. Every part of her body would be covered so as to be protected from the evil eyes of lusty men. The pallu covered her head in front of the elders and while engaging in devotional activities. This represented her modesty which was considered an ornament of the woman.
What Are Art Silk Sarees? – Unveiling Their Grace
9 May 2024
Art silk sarees are renowned for their fashionable luxurious look resembling pure silk sarees. However, artisans give it a slight turn and use artificial fibers instead such as rayon and polyester to craft exquisite Art silk sarees, also known as Artificial silk sarees. Coming in a plethora of designs and vivid colors, these sarees have made their way to the hearts of Indian women of all ages, providing them with sheer elegance and femininity. The silk fabric, of course, offers the saree an unmatched appeal. Art silk features an excellent sheen which matches that of natural silk and is affordable as well. But as mesmerizing as they might appear, the work and dedication the artisans put into making them is much more than anyone might think. There goes meticulous attention to traditional textiles to bring the essence of the rich artistic and cultural heritage of India into the art saree.
Best Indian Home Decor: Bring the Charm of India to Your Home
24 April 2024
Your home and how you decorate it speaks volumes about your taste and style. From the nooks and crannies to the centerpieces and tables, each element represents your aesthetics. For many of us, the minimalism of the modern age is the preferred home decor style, but there are others who wish to keep things traditional. These are the people who are in love with their culture and heritage and are mesmerized by the royalness of Indian decor. If you are someone who wishes to create interiors that transport you back in time, treat this curated list blog as your mood board and assistant to pick some of the best Indian home decor for your home. Whether you are a full-blown fan of traditional decor or someone who dabbles in vintage decor, this read is for you.
Hanuman Powerful Hindu God: Meaning, Symbolism and Idols
23 April 2024
Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, is worshipped as the embodiment of strength, devotion, and wisdom. This article reveals his five powerful forms Aashirvaad, Namaskar, Dhyana, Flying with Sanjeevani, and the legendary chest-tearing episode. Each form carries deep symbolism, guiding devotees in choosing the right Hanuman idol for their home and spiritual practice while understanding the divine stories that make him the supreme Rama-bhakta. Want to know what Hanuman’s forms mean? Discover five divine Hanuman idols, their blessings, and how to keep them for strength, peace, and protection.
Co-Ord Sets: A Summer Time Essential
16 April 2024
All big names in contemporary fashion agree that timeless fashion and style need not be complicated. A simple element, a plain fabric, or a bold color can make a style statement. Ease and effortlessness are the fundamentals of modern fashion, and the favorites of fashionistas of today are outfits that are comfy and classy at once. One such handpicked statement of easy-breezy fashion is Co-ord sets, loved by the busy bees who are taking on the world, one comfortable step at a time.
The Eternal Tale of Indian Salwar Suits
20 March 2024
From the plain cotton kurti to the voluminous designer kurta for festivities, in the fashion world, the Indian salwar kurta has been a statement of feminine beauty, grace, and charm for centuries. Beginning in medieval times under the aegis of the Mughals who gave us the regal Gharara and Sharara, Anarkali, and Angarakahs, the salwar kameez or salwar kurta is one ensemble where comfort and class meet. This blog takes us through a classic ethnic wardrobe filled with the choicest salwar suit options, to let you pick your favorite one for the festivities ahead.
Why Should Children Read Books?
19 March 2024
And is not this true? The times sure have changed with children having a favorite video game or animated movie before they have a favorite book, but many of us remember the joy of opening a new book, fresh from the bookstore and letting its words and pictures welcome us in a world of wonder. The local bookstores, Wheeler shops at railway stations, hawkers with books, and book fairs- a huge world has grown around reading and readers in modern times. Scientific researchers too have suggested that reading or what is called “creative bibliotherapy” has positive effects on our minds. Undoubtedly, inculcating reading as a habit at a young age in your child and children around you can be a fruitful thing for their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, nourishing them to become a more well-rounded human being as they grow up. Here is a list of five reasons why children should read books, and why reading as a hobby will always be in vogue.
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