Rakul Preet Singh Kanchipuram sari celebrates traditional ‘muthu kattam’ checks woven in gold zari
Rakul Preet Singh is currently on the promotional run of her upcoming fantasy/drama Ramayana where she plays the role of Ravana’s sister Surpanakha. For the trailer launch of the film in Delhi, Preet chose a Kanchipuram silk sari from Kankatala, an 83-year-old textile label based in Visakhapatnam.
Drawing inspiration from the traditional Kanchipuram check pattern, the yellow sari showcased gold zari muthu kattam checks—pearl-inspired woven squares—across the body that has long remained a hallmark of saris worn for weddings and ceremonial occasions. Intricately woven elephant and peacock motifs along with floral vines in gold zari made up the border of the sari. Singh draped the sari in the classic nivi style and paired it with a custom corset by Mumbai-based prêt label Nafs. The corset featured a sweetheart-neckline with zardozi embroidered vines across the bodice. For accessories, stylist Ami Patel opted for a statement necklace, chain-link stud earrings, a polki cummerbund, a ring and a stack of bangles, all from New Delhi-based jeweller Shri Paramani Jewels. Singh completed the ensemble with embroidered juttis from Delhi-based footwear label Fizzy Goblet. For the beauty look makeup artist Salim Sayed created a dewy base with blushed cheeks, defined lashes and pink lips, while hairstylist Aliya Shaik styled Singh’s hair in loose, centre-parted curls.
In popular culture, Rekha cemented the Kanchipuram sari’s iconic status, making the weave synonymous with her signature style and red-carpet appearances. Bhumi Pednekar also championed the weave, reimagining it with a brocade corset and a cape-style drape by Ekaya Banaras. Nita Ambani further showcased the weave on the global stage in a Swadesh India Kanchipuram sari while accepting the AAPI Humanitarian Award in Florida, USA.
From Vogue’s fashion desk:
“The best way to elevate a tone on tone look—if it falls too flat—is to introduce some contrast. For this look, swap the blouse for an embroidered purple blouse to break the tonality and add a focal point,” says Manglien Gangte, Vogue India fashion associate.
