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 The
documented history of Chanderi goes back to the early 11th century and
is a kaleidoscope of movement and activity prompted by its strategic
location. On the borders of Malwa and Bundelkhand, the town dominated
the trade routes of Central India and was proximate to the arterial
route to the ancient ports of Gujarat as well as to Malwa, Mewar,
Central India and the Deccan. Consequently, Chanderi became an important
military outpost, prized by rulers with power or ambition, and
repeatedly experienced the might of men who moulded the destiny of
Hindustan.
Chanderi is also famous
for its brocades and muslins, specially for its handwoven Chanderi
sarees. Here, master weavers use silk and cotton to create dazzling
weaves, distinguished by beautiful borders. Usually in subtle hues, the
Chanderi sarees have a sophistication hard to match. In the silk Zari
sarees, influences of the Varanasi style are visible. They generally
have a rich gold border and two gold bands on the pallav. The more
exclusive ones have gold checks with lotus roundels all over which are
known as butis.
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