Pat sarees are one of the regional sarees of India and are produced only in Assam like Muga Sarees. Though, the traditional dress of Assam, the Mekhla Chaddar is made of Pat Silk. Nowadays, pat silk fabric is also used for making sarees to cater to the demands of the customers all over the world. The Pat Silk Saree of Assam is famous for its regal appeal. The shining cream and white colour of this saree imparts an elevated feeling. The natural sheen of the material used in Pat sarees are considered most suitable for all special occasions by Assamese ladies. These Assam pat silk sarees are exported world over and their popularity is increasing. The artisans of different regions of India consider Pat silk as one of the best fabrics for creating exclusive traditional sarees. Assam is renowned all over the world for this indigenous silk.
Pat Silk
It is said that Pat silk is one of the variants of Muga silk and is one of the fine silk fabrics. Pat silk is an indigenous creation of Assam and is also named as Mulberry silk. Pat Silk is produced by Bombyxtextor silkworms which feed on mulberry leaves. It is usually brilliant white or off-white in colour. Its cloth can dry in shadow. This fabric is one of the world treasures of fine silk fabrics. It is raised, reeled or spun and woven on a village scale in only this one area of India.
Designs and Motifs of Pat Silk Saree
Various motifs, butis are knitted or woven on the sari and its border. Each ethnic group of the State has its own distinctive design and style. The motifs used in these sarees are mostly ethnic symbols of creepers, flowers, birds, channels, animals, human figures, cross borders, the galaxy and ornamental designs. Pat sarees are dyed in various vibrant and dazzling colours though the traditional colour of this material is white that connotes purity. The traditional wedding attire is created with intricate gold and silver embroidery on the Pat silk saree and the entire field of the body is done with Muga silk or gold and silver wire called guna. Even the bridal wear saree of this region is often made of Pat silk and is decked with intricate designs. These sarees have extreme charismatic look which is created by a three-dimensional effect. The Pat saree has a distinct appeal to the Indian women and this regional saree is coveted by almost all women of Assam.
Global Demand of Pat Silk Saree
Although Pat sarees are gaining a good reputation across the country and abroad, the weavers are still not projecting and marketing their Pat products in a bid to create more popularity for their handloom product and increase the sales.
Maintenance of Pat Silk Saree
Pat Silk is very durable, although on the outlook it might seem very delicate and lightweight. However, as is the case with most Silks, Pat sarees or any garment made out of Pat Silk should be dry cleaned and kept wrapped in a cloth. It should be taken out from time to time to check for any damage.
