Silk Saree Fitting Into Matchbox Offered to Goddess Kanaka Durga
The saree is a stunning example of fine handloom artistry
Vijayawada: In an example of remarkable craftsmanship, noted weaver and “Cheneta Kala Ratna” awardee Nalla Vijay Kumar from Rajanna Sircilla district of Telangana has presented an extraordinary silk saree, small enough to fit inside a matchbox, to Goddess Kanaka Durga at the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Devasthanam atop Indrakeeladri on Tuesday.
Inspired by the legacy of his late father, renowned handloom artisan and award recipient Nalla Parandhamulu, Vijay Kumar personally handed over the unique hand-woven creation to temple executive officer V.K. Seena Naik, requesting that it be used to adorn the presiding deity.
The saree is a stunning example of fine handloom artistry. Measuring 5.5 metres in length and 48 inches in width, it weighs just 200 grams, despite its full-size dimensions. Crafted over a period of seven days with meticulous effort on a traditional loom, the saree features an elegant and intricate Ikkat design, showcasing the exceptional skill of the artisan. Its most striking feature is that it can be folded compactly enough to fit inside a small matchbox.
Speaking on the occasion, Vijay Kumar said every innovative handloom creation he had produced in the past had received the blessings of Goddess Kanaka Durga. He expressed happiness at offering the latest masterpiece to the deity and sought her continued blessings for the handloom community.
The master craftsman recalled that he and his team had earlier designed a special shawl titled “Operation Sindhu”, which had been presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and received appreciation from him. Drawing inspiration from that recognition, Vijay Kumar said, the new saree has been woven to demonstrate the excellence of India’s traditional handloom heritage.
Temple EO Seena Naik examined the unique creation and lauded the weaver’s extraordinary talent. He urged people to support and promote traditional arts and crafts, in line with the encouragement being extended by both the central and state governments.
