A village called Pochampally

The idea to weave cotton with silk started as an experiment by the weaver’s community of the region in order to improve their livelihood. The attempt to better their lives soon became popular amongst the riches and began to be exported to far off places.

Pochampally saree is visually distinct because of its big, bold and bright patterns. The motifs might take you hundred years back in time with its intricate geometrical patterns and floral detailing which is achieved by the master weavers after years of meticulous involvement with the craft. The designs originated from Chirala, a small town in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh but it soon spread to other weaving clusters of Andhra as well. A characteristic design in pochampally weaving is diamond within a square.

The reversible pochampally now finds its place in Apparel and Home Furnishing sector as well, but how it has retained the element of typically Pochampally craft is worth commenting upon. Nevertheless, Pochampally was the first traditional craft sector to be awarded a geographical indication. It might be pointed that technique of ikat weaving is same for Odisha ikat as well. But what brings a difference is the feel of Pochampally fabric. It is smoother and lighter in comparison to the ikats of Odisha.