Silken Threads of Royalty: Saree Shopping in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Era

Unraveling the Fabric of Tradition and Elegance


In the opulent courts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, sarees were more than mere garments; they were woven threads of tradition, culture, and elegance. Let’s step back in time to explore how these exquisite textiles found their way into the royal wardrobe.

  1. Local Markets and Bazaars:

    • Saree merchants, known as “sareewalas,” traveled from different regions, carrying a variety of sarees, fabrics, and textiles.
    • These merchants set up stalls near the palace, displaying their wares.

  2. Courtiers and Attendants:

    • The queens and noblewomen expressed their desire for new sarees.
    • Courtiers and attendants liaised with saree merchants, negotiating prices and selecting suitable sarees.

  3. Palace Visits and Selection:

    • Saree merchants were invited to the palace.
    • They brought a collection of sarees, neatly folded and packed in boxes or trunks.
    • The queens chose sarees based on personal taste and occasion.

  4. Custom Orders and Respect:

    • Some royal families had specific preferences.
    • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj respected women and considered them as mothers.

The process was respectful, practical, and aligned with cultural norms. These silken threads adorned queens, princesses, and noblewomen, reflecting India’s rich textile heritage.


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