Kanjeevaram

Kanjeevaram, also spelled Kanchipuram, is a city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It lies about 75 kilometers southwest of Chennai and serves as the administrative headquarters of the Kanchipuram district. The city is renowned for its historic temples and as a center of Tamil culture, and it is internationally famous for its handwoven silk sarees known as Kanchipuram or Kanjeevaram sarees.

Silk and weaving: The silk industry is a major economic activity in Kanjeevaram. Sarees are woven from pure mulberry silk and finished with zari borders using gold or silver thread. A distinctive technique involves weaving the body and the border separately and then joining them on the loom, producing a durable, lustrous fabric. Designs often draw on temple motifs, checks, stripes, and floral patterns, and the finished sarees are highly prized for weddings and formal wear.

History and culture: The city has ancient roots and was a capital of the Pallava dynasty, contributing to early South Indian temple architecture and literature. It houses several major temples, including Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Kailasanathar Temple, reflecting its religious and historical significance. Kanchipuram is widely regarded as a pilgrimage site and is often referred to as the City of Thousand Temples.

Transport and economy: Kanjeevaram is accessible by road and rail from Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu. The nearest international airport is Chennai. In addition to textiles, the city supports educational and cultural institutions and remains a prominent destination for traditional silk sarees and related crafts.