The Family which handpicks every Saree in their store: Kankatala

Consumerism and shopping, be it online at the click of your thumb or at the leisure of a multiplex mall, has now become an integral part in their life for every Indian. And with that came a lot of option and a whole window of fast fashion and unheard brands/stores.

However, there is something really special about choosing a family run business when it comes to high quality fabrics. Just like your Grandma still trusts a particular store for Hand spun saris. If we are precise, they would refer the store with the owners Surname and never do they refer to the store name. But in the present time, it is really hard to maintain the legacy through all the thick and thin and still be a pioneer in the Industry.

Kankatala flagship store in 1943

So, today we present to you one such Family run business which has accomplished major milestones by being both a Brand and also keeping their legacy intact. Kankatala. The name is as old as the Telugu Wedding Industry itself. Founded by late Sri Kankatala Appalraju garu, in 1943 for his passion towards high quality Fabrics, Kankatala is now very skilfully managed by their Third Generation Heirs who inherited the same love for delivering High end Products and Services to all their customers.That said, Kankatala boasts to be the first ever Sari showroom in Andhra Pradesh.

Kanchipuram saree from Kankatala

Every Sari from the Vault of Kankatala was and is so unique that their loyal customers turned to be their brand ambassadors and kept returning to their store for exclusive silk saris and Pavadas.

Pink Silver zari Kanchipuram saree from Kankatala

Earlier referred to as Kankatala Appalraju and Co, Kankatala now has multiplied to Seven 7 stores across the state and now servicing their customers through their online store too. And all this did not happen by just luck or just their Legacy. We have know many family run stores which couldn’t stand the test of time. Kankatala stands apart and so does their legacy.

Elegant pistachio green saree from Kankatala

There is a amazing reason why Kankatala stood strong through all of it untethered is, their eye for detailing and their love for quality. Did you know that every sari which goes into their physical stores/ online stores  is carefully examined by a member of Kankatala family and only after their approval is when they go into the racks. Such is the care taken by them. So the next time you walk into their store to make a purchase for your special occasion, you can be sure that is verified for its quality and purity. That ladies and Gentleman is Kankatala for you.

A heritage saree from the vaults of Kankatala

I am not exaggerating when I came across certain incidents where people who are familiar with Kankatala for a long time never really prefer going to Kanchi for their wedding shopping. They would simply tell me “Why travel all the way to Kanchipuram? We get everything here and we have been shopping this way for generations. Also when Kankatala stores all kinds of silk saris, why would you only choose Kanchipuram saris, that too with the over head burden of travel.”
This was a very personal experience to me when it came to my friends wedding. They stay near vizag and their family prefers no other store except Kankatala. I then understood how special these guys made every trip of their patrons memorable.

So, next time when it doubt, be it the 75 year old legacy Kankatala for your Shopping.

Where to buy Sarees in Kanchipuram? Here is the list!!

Going to Kanchipuram is a dream for any south Indian bride. Ofcourse, what better place than the silk city to start your wedding shopping. Everyone must have come across families who have been going to Kanchipuram for generations together to do their wedding shopping to that one trusted store.

But if you are a first timer, we understand your concern and fear. Finding a trusted merchant, estimating the weaving quality of the cloth and paying the right price for what you buy are very importan. Also, Wedding shopping involves a huge amount of money and not just the bridal sarees, we also get other sarees for our close relatives. So one would never want to compromise on anything when you travel so long to buy Sarees.

So here is our list of the trusted stores that we suggest you if you are going to Kanchipuram for your wedding shopping.
Prakash Silks and Sarees, it is known as an Institution for Kanchipuram sarees and the price is definitely the best in town. Infact, I purchased my first Kanchipuram Saree here, and had such a hard time choosing, since they had such an extensive collection of silk saris. I ended up buying 2 saris there .If you ask me about pricing, a typical 10000 rupee saree at Prakash silks usually costs you at least 13-14k outside Kanchipuram and this is something I experienced it myself via a leading online merchant.
However,make sure you go to the store before the opening time, otherwise it’s really hard to get a place incase you are in for a wedding shopping.

Bridal Saree from Prakash silks

A.S Babu Sah, well this is name is the oldest as far as even Grandmom’s know. Their expertise is Bridal Kanchivarams is unmatched. Ask them the type and style you want, they would never disappoint you. They literally have all the designs which every Bride wants. As a matter of fact I found my Muhurtham saree at A.S Babu Sah. They quality of the Sarees can never be questioned. What the salesperson says is what goes into the weaving of the Saree. As mentioned above , you need to come prepared for a mad rush you are going to experience. So you better come as early as possible to make sure you get a place and a Salesperson assigned to you.

Shopping at AS Babu Sah

Pachaiyappa’s silks: Last but not the least is Pachaiyappa’s silks, they have been in Kanchipuram since a long time and you could even notice some schools and colleges named after its founder. Such is their legacy, so make sure you visit them too when you are at Kanchipuram. They have a vast collection which would be amazed it and its so hard to pick just one.

Kanchipuram saree from Pachaiyappas silks

And to make the most out of your buck, if your bill exceeds one lakh, make sure you ask them for a lil’ discount. Usually all the merchants in Kanchipuram give 5% discount on purchases above 1 lakh. So, don’t forget.

We have found some exclusive Benarasi pieces here. Grab them now!!

If Kanchipuram is the pride of the South, Benaras is the crowning jewel of the North. As PM Modi mentioned in one of his public speech that ‘Every Mom’s dream is to gift her daughter a Beneras Saree for her wedding.” While that definitely hit the chords for all of us, that exactly how significant is India’s relation is with the Benarasi fabric. Hailing from the holy town of the Benaras, this definitely has history as old as the Kashi Ghats itself.

The famous bridal Benaras lehanga

The extensive weaving techniques using gold and silver thread or popularly called as the Sona Rupa Zari, this Weave is a must have for any India women’s wardrobe. However, due to the increased effort in the workmanship and spiked prices of the raw materials, Powerloomed and synthetic benaras have occupied the market. But, it is always as a great Investment and a priced possession too have the weave in your style trunk as a timeless classic. So here today, we have found some authentic online stores for some epic Benarasi drapes. So wait no further.

Bridal Lehanga from the House of Bageecha

Bageecha is a relatively new designer brand which took its name from the motifs of the Benaras itself. They are on their path of making their way big into the fashion industry bringing back the rich culture of the Benarasi fabrics through their bridal Lehangas and Dupatta. Without any exaggeration Bageecha is the best we found while hunting for Benaras lehangas.

A beautiful master weave Benaras from the house of Tilfi

Tilfi is a versatile brand which is putting tremendous effort in bringing back all the ancient weaves while working together with the weavers directly at Beneras. Their prices start from 5k to 60k depending on the quality and the weaving pattern of the Benarasee saree.

The grandeur of the Benaras from the weaverstory trunk

Weaverstory probably needs no introduction to anyone. It is considered an Institution when it comes to showcasing a beautiful curation of Benaras pieces ranging from khaddi chiffon to Jaal weaves and anything you name it under the roof of Benaras.

So, which one is your choice out of these Drool worth Benaras weaves.

Stay tuned to Bridesessentials for more such interesting stories.

Fashion inspiration from Prabha, the sister of the Bride

It is extremely important to look presentable at any time for any person. As they say “first impressions are the best impressions”. Well, people might contradict and argue on perceptions. But, best looks boosts confidence in any person. Besides, it is a feel good factor.

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This applies to looks at weddings too. Everyone decks up to perfection, to add colours to the event. While some follow latest trends and fashions, very few create a style. One of such trend setter is “Prabha Ravichandran”. Does the name sound familiar? Yeah! She is the same girl whom featured on our site last year for her astounding bridal looks. This year she is the sister/cousin of the bride. I must say she rocked the show again!!

The choice of colours and combinations that Prabha picks up are vivid and vibrant. The  contrast colours she picked are some deadly combination like black and pink, Orange and off white, violet and orange, yellow and Pink…etc. This style queen chose minimal jewellary in all her looks and looked absolutely elegant.

Prabha bought her sarees from Deepam – Bangalore, Samayak – Bangalore, PSR-Coimbatore. Prabha being a fashion designer herself, she designed all her blouses and jewellary.  She got the blouses stitched from Mantra design studio –Coimbatore as per her choice. The alluring jewellary she wore were custom made as per her designs by Sumangali – Coimbatore and Kirthilal- Coimbatore.

Kaathyayini Maggam Work Blouses

My personal favourite of her dressing is her hairdo. Her braid reminds me of the beautiful braid of Rapunzel in a Disney movie. The chaplets that she wore were made from the flowers of her garden.  She gives her make up credits to Senthil and Hair style to Ben Ben.

This scintillating sister of the bride is giving everyone some fashion and bridesmaids goals.

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Blossoming Hearts – Sri Himaja and Sudheer Kumar’s budget friendly wedding

Indian Weddings come with extravagance, lavish and prodigality. Spending inordinately at Weddings is a matter of prestige for wealthy class, while it has become an obligation to middle class and lower class. Sometimes leading to burden on their lives. We have been hearing stories of simple weddings that are making into news every other day. People have started realizing the necessity of simple weddings and are looking for budget friendly options in decor, photography, wedding outfits, food..etc.

Here is one such budget friendly wedding of Sri Himaja and Sudheer. Let’s see how they managed to pulled off their ceremonies brilliantly and that too within the 10-15 lakhs.

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Hi, My name is Sri Himaja. I am born and bought up in Warangal. Currently I am pursuing Masters in Business Management. I got married in the first week of March to Sudheer. My parents were searching for right prospects from last 2 years.

We got to know about Sudheer and his family through a match maker. Sudheer is from Khammam and he works in Hyderabad. I met him in Khammam and both the families finalized the match after a couple of days. Our engagement was held in Warangal on 2nd February. I wore orange saree with designer blouse. We bought engagement rings from Joy Alukkas, Warangal. We are glad I found the prettiest ring that I was looking for around 20 k.

Coming to the wedding, it was held in Warangal itself. All my shopping was done in Hanamkonda and Warangal. I bought sarees from VRK silks, Hanamkonda. Each saree I bought was in the range of 8000 to 15,000. VRK silks have got a variety of sarees that made me instantly fell in love with.

My blouses were designed by Mamata from Mista boutique in Warangal. She did a stupendous work. Work on blouses and tailoring both were done by her. I got many compliments from relatives on friends. She charged around 2000 to 5000 per blouse depending upon the type of work.

Pellikoothuru ceremony and Mehandi were celebrated at my residence with close family and friends. Decor at home was done with Marigolds and green parrots hanging here and there. We paid 7-8 thousand for the whole decor at home.

I hired a beautician for wedding day and Mehendi. For all other events, I did my makeup with my cousins helping me. I always wanted a simple look and didn’t felt the need to hire a beautician for all events. Mehendi and wedding make up costed me below Rs. 8000.

Ms Pink Panther

We bought few gold ornaments from Khazana and Joy Allukas. Silver: We purchased from Krishna, our family friend and jeweller. Foot wear was from Centro in Hanamkonda. It was exactly the pair I was looking for.

Wedding hall was huge with big garden and parking space. Everyone enjoyed the place. They charged us 65000 and stage decor expenses came upto 80,000. Photography for all our events was done by Sreenu and his team. They are from Warangal and they gave us fabulous pics. Moreover, they were rendering service within my budget of 50,000.

Few accessories and petty things I bought from Begum bazaar, Hyderabad. I am happy about the way everything fell in place and people complimented about my sarees, jewellary and decor.

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#Motif series 2: The elegance of the magical Anna Pakshi!!

The motif series had a great start with the ever powerful Gandaberunda  about whom we spoke about the last time. And today of course is no exception as we are back with another historic and mystical motif which I am sure is gonna leave you in awe.

It is about the elegant and graceful Anna Pakshi. Let me warn you now, that this bird from the heavens led to some serious debating and a lot of research as most of us(including me, until recently)  unknowingly considered it as peacock . Well, though it looks similar, it is definitely not a ‘Mayura’ and our  line of reference are the motifs from our Kanchivaram sareees it self. The thumb rule to identify an Anna Pakshi is this bird is rather curvy, round  with a paisley shaped feathers. Below is the picture which clears the confusion. The center one is the Anna Pakshi while it is covered with Peacock motifs around.

Annapakshi motif on Silk saree

Anna Pakshi happens to be a white, short and beautiful mythical swan which happens to hail from the heavens. They say that it is immensely magical and that this ‘Swetha pakshi’ is a symbol of purity. Did I say purity? Yes, when given a bowl of milk mixed with water, they say that it would only take in pure milk leaving the water aside. Hmm.. while the authenticity  is unknown, this definitely reminds me of the Kabir Das doha which says that we humans, should be only take in the good in the world leaving aside the evil.

Anna pakshi inspired sarees

“Hamsa Gayatri
Om Hamsaaya Vidmahe
Paramahamsaaya Dhimahi
Tanno Hamsha Pracodayaat”

When I was drafting this blog, I magically heard my mom chanting the above lines .The above phrase is a version of Gayathri mantra talking about this mythical swan which is the vehicle for Lord Bhramha and his consort Saraswathi. I guess the Anna Pakshi was seeking me to put this point across and I definitely consider it as a blessing.

With all these divine motifs, there is no wonder why Kanchipuram sarees  are considered celestial. But hey its not just the sarees which has Anna Pakshi motifs, look what we found, the Vilakku or the Deepam. I am sure that this is a common sight across all the south  Indian households, especially in Kerala who use gaint Vilakku. Deeparathana is considered to be very pure in Hindu rituals and our ancestors combined that with the symbol of purity. Wah!!  I cannot stop myself from admiring their thoughtfulness behind customs and ancient designs, which is seen across the rituals.

The Anna Pakshi vilakku

And we are not done yet . Tanjore paintings, another iconic art of the south gives a visual retreat of this Anna Pakshi in hues of gold and it is definitely worth a stare without blinking your eyes. Hand painted Anna Pakshi with some stunning gold foil and stone work. Found a spot for this in the living room yet?

Tanjore painting of Anna Pakshi

Last, but the not the least, every one loves Kalamkari and there are two versions to it. One the block print and the other is the Pen Kalamkari. However the latter is a lot more special as the artisan pictures the entire design and dyes them with hand and here we found a impeccable portraiture  of the Anna pakshi using the Pen Kalamkari technique. Not one, but two, forming the twin Anna pakshi frame.

Anna pakshi using Kalamkari technique

Now my favourite question to all of you , which out of these would you want to own as a Keepsake?  If you ask my choice, obviously the saree(women love sarees you see..) and additionally the Tanjore Painting too for the little corner in my living room.

To satiate your visual cravings for Anna Pakshi, here are some beautiful handwoven sarees from Kanakavalli !!

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Hope you all enjoyed the blog. Stay tuned to Brides essentials for more such interesting updates!!

 

 

Trending Unique motifs alert!

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Architecture seems to having it’s time in the sun and from temples to mosques to mahals, the designs are all over the place! And if you are a bride who loves a bit of tradition and heritage as part of your outfit, we say – go head, full speed! There are even witnessed in the bridal  mehendi designs that are really kicking up a notch on the architectural side, so take a look at these motifs!
We are blessed to be  a part of such heritage.

Gajja or the Elephant Motif
Over a period of time encompassing several centuries, elephants became an important part of Indian life and society, particularly of religious tradition, the royalty, and the aristocratic segment of the society.

Yali Mandapas
The strength and power of Yali can be understood by the significance of its placement which is often the main pillars in the entrance of mandapam (a temple porch or gateway leading to the temple) and sometimes serving as Dwara-Baalagars (Guards to the God). It is believed that its gracious yet ferocious expressions scare away the evil and protect the sanctity of the place.

Deer Motif 
The deer has found many interesting spots in Hindu Mythology. Playing an integral role in Sita’s abduction by Raavan; to being spotted in the dainty Mughal paintings, the deer, an exotic animal has found its way on various art forms of through mudras in dance forms, mythology and sculptures.

Annapakshi
Symbol of purity, sheer and elegance is the gracious swan that has decked the Kanjivaram sarees for centuries to modern days. The bird believed to be Goddess Saraswathi’s Vaahanam (vehicle), the mythical creature is also referred as Annapakshi.

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Panch Kalyan
The white horse is considered auspicious. Panch Kalyan means five good markings  from GOD. Also called the ” horse of lord Krishna”.

Gandaperunda
Gandaperunda is a mythical bird of supreme strength and grace.The motif is found in many forms and variants ornately sculpted onto stupas and ceilings of the royal courts and temples to symbolise righteousness and power.

These have  been a significant motif in Kanjivaram silk sarees and is believed to be extremely auspicious for sarees worn for weddings, baby showers and other auspicious ceremonies .From palaces to temples,  motifs that have stood across centuries as an inspiration for master weavers.

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Kumari Collections is a one stop online boutique for Indian ethnic & trendy sarees. The have wide range of sarees like Handlooms sarees ,Uppada sarees ,Ikat sarees ,Banaras sarees ,Chendari sarees and Designer sarees.
You can get in touch for further details on   086860 90905 and check out their facebook – KumarisCollection .

Most important trivial things that are often ignored at the Weddings

What comes to your mind when you hear wedding preparations? For me it was always shopping, jewelry , sarees, clothes, flowers, matching accessories, silver, footwear and anything that is glittering. But is this all that is needed? Are we missing out on anything? Think once more.. can’t say.. Don’t worry! We have got into the nitty gritties to come up with the below list that is often scrapped as inconsequential but are quintessential in the needy hour for our bride and some to both, bride and groom. Not in any particular order.

Kaathyayini Maggam Work Blouses

Saree pins: If you are an Indian Bride, you will surely be wearing atleast one or two sarees throughout the wedding ceremonies. So, pick saree pins in tandem with your outfits.

Safety pins: This I call “Multipurpose paraphernalia”.  Trouble with your blouse fitting? saree? foot wear? Bag? Safety pins, I think we can say a great invention. These will gracefully hide the loopholes and help you pull off the event.

Scissors: What if you need to chop off your extra threads peeping out of now where. Keep this handy, you will not regret.

Hair pins: If your tresses ditch you any time responding to wind like its die hard lover, hair pins will help to put a curtain to its play. These have been proved to be successful for many generations.

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Handkerchiefs (You should have not one but few in handy): Oh! I am not saying that this is absolutely necessary during vidhai ceremony. Need not. Hope, you never use it there.  But just in case, if you are an emotional woman like me.

Tissue papers: How are planning to manage if accidentally spill something on your clothes? or How are you thinking to rub off your  hands after puja? You are not going to run into the washroom, when tissues are in handy.

Wet wipes: Keeping these with you will help you wipe off your dull stressful face, extra layer of makeup and helps to rejuvenate your skin

Make up remover: why use water to remove your make up at end of the day. Use this for effective and quick results.

Cotton balls/Cotton: These are the best to wipe off your makeup after ceremonies.

Face wash: If ever you need to wash your face in between ceremonies during the day. Good face wash which suits your skin tone is better than a soap any day.

Moisturizer: Obviously needed one after a face wash or if not otherwise also for smooth and shin skin.

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Hand Sanitizer: It is very essential to clean your hands and wipe off chemicals used in non-organic vermilion, turmeric, sandalwood manufactured these days. Hand sanitizer is the better option owing to your restriction to visit the washroom during pujas or bridal ceremonies.

Few straws: Sounds insane but I have a confession to make… I really feel comfortable sipping juice or water with full make up on… especially when dazzling lipstick adore my lips.. Straws, I feel might help you to overcome such apprehensions.

A pocket mirror: I would love to watch me again and again because who is a better judge than yourself and check what suits you and then correct it if something goes uncanny.

Huge empty box: To dump off all your accessories after usage.

If you think, you can add some more to the list, do tell us through your comments. Let’s not restrict this list. Keep it coming !!!

 Title pic Courtesy: Aishwarya Videos

The Ethereal -Pranaah by Poornima.

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Introducing an amazing designer Poornima , based in Kerela whose collection fueled love for intricate  details in her collection.The designer has an exclusive  celebrity designer boutique in Kerala. Along with showcasing her signature collection, it also provides a platform for one to one interactions on fashion, styling and makeovers.
We are  so overwhelmed by looking at her creativity, fashion sense, inspiration and it’s all so innovative and extravagant.
elegant,strong,soft,femme,ethereal and extravagant.

The amazing back motif steals the show!

So fierce and gorgeous in white.

Traditional and modern blend, edgy and bold!

The elephant motifs are love at first sight.. so intricate.

Off shoulder Love!

Aren’t her designs inspiring ladies?!

Exotic and mind blowing design, would definitely love to have this gorgeous outfit in the wardrobe.

Chic white saree!

Strong black and golden , classic combination , giving an ombre effect.

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Happy Pranaah bride on her haldi in a beautiful ensemble in yellow.

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Signature Collection by Poornima Indrajith
4th Cross Road, Opposite Union Bank, Panampilly Nagar, Near Manorama Junction, Kochi-36, Ph +91 484 319 9946.
For more gorgeous designs like their Facebook page here .

Dress with Passion & style with the Label ‘M.

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Her we   are today introducing the lovely Sister’s in law duo, Anu and Reshma . They put their heads and their talents together a few years ago to create a fashion brand that became a hit with women in Kerala.
A desire to make people look their best, they came together for their love of fashion and creating unique style statements.
In just a few years, Label’M has become a celebrated name across Kerala, even becoming a favourite with celebrities like Kavya Madhavan, Ann Augustine, Meera Nanda and Sandra Thomas.
Their collection varies from sarees to gowns , wedding gowns and lehengas.
Here is a sneak peak-

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• To own their piece of flattering creation in your wardrobe –
  Contact them
  Label’M, Vytilla- 0484 4011607
  0484 4030842
  
  Label’M, LULU Mall- 0484 4041403

  Label’M, Calicut – 0495 2360440

  Label’M, Coimbatore – 0422 6556556

• Also check their facebook page here

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