Chanderi Silk-Cotton Weaving of Madhya Pradesh

Chanderi town in Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh has produced delicate silk-cotton mixed fabric since the medieval era — the fabric is named after the town. Chanderi fabric is characterised by extreme lightness (as little as 30 grams per saree), translucency, and glossy sheen. It is woven on pit looms from a warp of pure silk and a weft of cotton, producing a unique blended texture. Traditional Chanderi sarees have a distinctive three-colour body-and-border with motifs drawn from Bundela architecture: lotus, coin, peacock, and dancing figures. GI certification was awarded. The weavers of Chanderi are predominantly Muslim Koshti community. Over 3500 looms operate in the cluster. Contemporary designers have elevated Chanderi to high-fashion status, featuring it in runway collections alongside Banarasi and Kanchipuram. Export demand from Indian diaspora and international luxury buyers is steady.