Know your weave
Mangalagiri cotton sarees
Updated
The short answer
A Mangalagiri cotton saree is a GI-tagged handloom saree from Mangalagiri in Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, woven from fine cotton on pit looms. It has a plain or striped body, a zari Nizam border with no motifs on the body, and a crisp, breathable texture ideal for hot climates.
GI tag
"Mangalagiri Sarees and Fabrics" was registered as a Geographical Indication (application no. 198) on 15 January 2013 by the Geographical Indications Registry, Government of India, covering Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh.
How it is woven
Fine cotton yarn (100s to 200s count) is dyed and woven on pit looms. The weaver sits in a pit dug into the floor, which keeps the warp tension even and gives the cloth its tight, smooth weave.
Key features
- Pure cotton body, tightly woven, with a subtle sheen.
- Nizam zari border with tiny inverted checks and dots.
- No motifs on the body; stripes or checks on some designs.
- Usually 6.3 metres including an unstitched blouse piece.
Price range
Genuine handloom Mangalagiri cotton sarees typically cost between ₹2,000 and ₹6,000 depending on yarn count, zari and border width. Much lower prices usually indicate powerloom.