The saree has always held a special place in Indian culture. Among the wide varieties, some are renowned worldwide, and the Patola saree from Patan, Gujarat, is one of them. While even high-quality sarees usually cost a few thousand rupees, an authentic Patan Patola saree can range from one lakh to ten lakh rupees or even more.
It is astonishing to hear that a single saree can cost lakhs of rupees. What is it about this saree that makes it so special? Let us explore why the Patola is considered one of the most expensive sarees in the world.
**Double Ikat Weaving**
The defining feature of the Patan Patola is its weaving process. It is crafted using the 'double ikat' technique. Unlike standard sarees—which are dyed after weaving or feature designs created directly from the thread—the Patola is made differently.
To weave a Patola, both the warp and weft threads are dyed before the weaving begins. The weavers are so skilled and experienced that they know exactly where each thread will fall and what part of the design it will create. Even a slight misalignment of a single thread can ruin the entire design.
**Identical on Both Sides**
Usually, one can easily distinguish the front side of a saree from the back, but with a Patola, this is impossible. The saree looks the same on both sides. At first glance, one might not even realize the immense complexity involved in its weaving—yet that is precisely what makes it so special. Its color, luster, and design appear identical on both sides.
**Months of Effort**
An authentic Patan Patola saree is hand-woven; no machines are used in the process. Consequently, creating even a simple Patola takes anywhere from six months to a year. If the design is intricate, it can take even longer. It is the months of painstaking effort by the weavers that make this saree so valuable.
**Stays looking new for centuries**
No matter how expensive a saree is, its luster tends to fade after a few years; however, the Patan Patola remains looking new for centuries. No chemical dyes are used in its creation—only natural colors. An authentic Patola saree retains its pristine, new appearance for nearly 300 years, meaning it can be worn by three generations.
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