Maharashtra
Buy Paithani Sarees Online
Authentic handwoven Paithani in pure silk — the treasured weave of Maharashtra, famed for its solid-gold zari border woven as one with the body and a tapestry-woven pallu of flowers, vines and muniya (parrot) motifs in jewel-toned meenakari. One of India's most prestigious heirloom drapes. Shipped across India and worldwide.
About the craft
The Paithani takes its name from the town of Paithan in Maharashtra, where the weave has been made for close to two thousand years. What sets it apart is that its motifs are not printed or embroidered but tapestry-woven by hand — coloured silk and real zari interlocked into the fabric thread by thread, so the flowers, vines and birds sit within the weave itself and read almost identically on both sides. The signature solid-gold border is woven as one continuous piece with the body, a technique known as kadiyal.
A fine Paithani can carry Sona Rupa (gold and silver) zari and jamdani-style meenakari, where each motif is worked freehand into the weave in jewel tones — deep pinks, saffron, peacock blue, ivory. Building a pallu this way, motif by motif, can take a weaver weeks to months at the loom, which is why the Paithani has long been woven for royalty and remains one of the most treasured sarees for weddings and heirloom occasions across India.
What makes a saree a genuine Paithani?
A genuine Paithani is handwoven in pure silk with real zari, and its defining feature is the technique: the motifs — flowers, vines, the muniya (parrot), the peacock — are tapestry-woven by hand, interlocking coloured silk and zari thread by thread rather than being printed or embroidered on afterwards. The result is a design that is near-reversible, a solid zari border woven as one with the body (kadiyal), and a pallu built up motif by motif. A real Paithani takes weeks to months on the loom.
What is Sona Rupa zari and meenakari in a Paithani?
Sona Rupa means "gold and silver" — zari work that combines both metallic threads so the motifs shift in tone as they catch the light. Meenakari is the use of coloured silk within the zari to bring the flowers, birds and vines to life in jewel tones. In a jamdani-woven Paithani, these motifs are worked freehand into the weave itself, which is what gives the pallu and body their painterly, three-dimensional depth.
Is a Paithani a good choice for a wedding or occasion saree?
Yes — the Paithani is one of Maharashtra's most treasured heirloom drapes, historically woven for royalty and worn for weddings and the most important festive occasions. Its solid-gold border and richly woven pallu give it real presence, and a well-kept Paithani is traditionally passed down across generations.
How should I care for a Paithani silk saree?
Dry clean only, and store folded in soft muslin away from direct sunlight and moisture. Refold it periodically so the zari does not crease along the same lines. Handled with care, the pure silk and real zari of a Paithani are made to last generations.
Do you ship Paithani sarees internationally?
Yes — Sohum Sutras ships worldwide from India for a flat ₹5,000 per order, delivered in 10–15 business days. Customs or import duties, where applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility. Message Kiran on WhatsApp at +91-9810530027 to arrange an international order.