Khandua Pata Silk Saree: The Fabric used to adorn Lord Jagannath
India’s rich silk history contains many different stories, which are interesting and reflective of our deep spirituality. Khandua Pata is one of the prominent fabrics that has immense spiritual significance.
Let me tell you what a Khandua pata silk means all about. Originating in Odisha, it is a special mulberry silk ( Ahimsa Silk) crafted only for Lord Jagannath.
Previously It was woven only by the brahmin community of Odisha, called the Meher community.
From the 12 th century onwards, this silk started its journey. But at that time, these Meher brahmin weavers were patronized by the king of Odisha.
But later on, this dynasty system was abolished, and for the economical purpose the, this saree started diluting among the commoners.
Thre odia girls started wearing it on the auspicious occasions, like weddings and other ‘Puja’ Days. ( I mean those days when their local auspicious gods and goddesses are worshipped with traditional rituals)
Know about the rich history of Khandua Pata Silk
In Odisha, Khandua means that cloth which is worn in the lower part of the body, and Pata means Fabric, so altogether these words depict 'the fabric which is worn in the lower part of the body'.
But the Meher community used to craft this, maintaining a lot of rituals.
The eldest in the family is the only one who is allowed to weave it.
Before the crafting starts, the first girlchild of the house weaves the first thread as the girls of the meher community is cosidered the symbol of luck and prosperity.
The weaving also has a process.
The eldest should start weaving only after taking a bath and doing puja of Lord Jagannath.
After taking the blessing of the Lord, the weaving process starts, and then it is continued till the saree is completed.
The weaver needs to sacrifice his lunch, dinner, and even going outside till the time khandua pata takes its complete shape.
The weaver has to continuously do the weaving at a stretch for 3 to 4 days as a devotee, tributing something for his lord.
The Nuapatna is called the silk village of Odisha, which is why the Nuapatna and the Malibandha village of Cuttack are considered the most famous Khandua Pata silk hub of India.
Previously, the Shlokas of Gita Gavindam were crafted on this silk saree. It was mentioned in the historic manuscript that poet Joydeb is the first person who dedicated this fabric to Lord Jagannath by writing his verses on the silk.
Later on, it became a tradition of crafting the Gita Gavinda shlokas on the Khandua Pata’s body.