Chennai, Nov 27 (IANS) A silk sari bejewelled with precious stones and the replicated paintings of Raja Ravi Varma is creating ripples in Tamil Nadu after it was showcased here Tuesday.
The drapery created by Chennai Silks, costing Rs.4 million, is seeking entry into the Guinness Book of World Records after it made to the Limca Book Of Records as the most expensive and intricately designed sari.
Eleven paintings of the late 19th century Indian painter Ravi Varma have been recreated on it. The main painting "Lady Musicians" - on the 'pallu' (the free end of the sari) - depicts a group of women musicians, all adorned in jewels and carrying various Indian musical instruments.
The jewels, adorning the women in paintings, have been made of gold, platinum, silver, and precious stones like ruby, emerald, yellow sapphire, sapphire, cat's eye, topaz, pearl and coral.
It took 4,680 man-hours for a team of highly skilled weavers to make the sari. At least 7,440 jacquard hooks, for weaving a design, and 66,794 cards - using CAD software - were used in the intricate hand weaving process.
"This is the first time gems and art have been (put) together to make a sari. Our creation has already made it to the Limca Book of Records and the Guinness is our aim now", says Chennai Slik director Chandran.
Actor director Suhasini Maniratnam unveiled the sari.
