Nabakothi Khandua Sarees

A rare to find and unique tradition of Odisha, the Nabakothi Khandua silk saree, is a significant representation of Odisha's religious beliefs and legitimacy. Nabakothi saree symbolizes auspicious number 9. The number 9 is considered a powerful number connected with Navarasa, Navami, Navaratri, Nabagraha, and the nine incarnations of human life.

The Significance of the Motifs

This authentic piece has nine unique motifs in the Kothi or houses placed horizontally across the body. As it is mentioned these Nabakothi sarees have nine different motifs spread across the body like kaincha (tortoise), mayurpankh( peacock feather), chakra (inspired by the Konark wheel), sakatpar, phula (flower), shankha (conch shell), padma (lotus), parrot, elephant, singha (lion), peacock, gada (mace), kalash , fish, prajapati (butterfly), etc.

The motifs of nine auspicious symbols are placed in nine quads called kothis arranged with mathematical precision so that no two adjacent squares have very similar motifs.

History and Production

Nabarangi or Nabakothi is a type of Khandua which has a distinctive design of nine boxes. The origin of Khandua (Nabakothi) traces back to 12th Century AD and it is closely associated with Lord Jagannath Temple rituals at Puri. These sarees are woven with wooden looms in the traditional style of hand weaving and the whole village of Nuapatna is devoted to this traditional form of weaving. 10,000 weavers are present with approximately 6000 looms. Other than Nabarangi other varieties like Tarabali, Gitagobinda vastra and a lot others are also weaved. Maniabandha as the name of the weaving style suggests is located just 3 kms away from Nuapatna. This region has a population of 3,500 and a total number of 384 looms.

This Nabakoti or Nabarangi theme is now being designed not only in Manabandh Single Ikat saree but also Sambalpuri Double Ikat Saree . These sarees are usually produced in NuapatnaThe traditional touch of the motifs and the color embraces the culture, making it the best choice for any puja, functions, and other events. Khandua , the primary weaving structure, is not just old traditional handloom fabric considered to be a heritage but also a fabulous fine fabric which is used for any high-end garments.

Taking Care of the Nabakothi Handloom Saree

• Before you wash Nabakothi sarees with soap, keep them soaked in salt water for some time but not for a longer duration.
• Use good quality, mild detergents to hand wash your sarees. Do not use dyes, bleach, harsh stain removers on delicate fabrics.
• Remember to wash these nabakothi handlooms only in cold water. Also Never wash your expensive handloom sarees in a washing machine.
• Petrol , talcum powder can be used for stain removal from Nabakothi Sarees or else dry cleaning would be the best option.
• Avoid direct sunlight when drying a saree as it might lead to fabric discoloration rather dry it in partial shade
• Always try to dry your saree separately from other clothes.
• While pressing the Nabakothi silk saree do not spray water on it before ironing as it may leave permanent marks on the fabric.
• Keep neem leaves in between the saree folds to preserve them from pests
• Also change the saree folds to avoid creases that can wear and tear the fabric