Sobhita Dhulipala’s engagement sari has us crushing on Upadda silk fabric. Here’s everything to know about the luxurious wedding wear option…
Made in Heaven actor Sobhita Dhulipala recently got engaged to partner and well-known South Indian actor Naga Chaitanya. As the images popped up on our Instagram feeds, we couldn’t help but notice the stunning sari she wore for the occasion.
The actress’ Manish Malhotra sari for the engagement ceremony was made of Upadda silk and was inspired by the Kanakaambaram, a traditional temple flower worn by Telugu women, and the lotus flower. Since Sobhita wanted her engagement look to pay homage to her culture and heritage, the choice of Upadda silk for the sari seems more apt.
Upadda silk fabric dates back to the 19th century and came to India from Bangladesh; though the technique has evolved since then. The style has been popular in Andhra Pradesh because it first arrived and thrived in the village of Uppada, Andhra Pradesh. Incidentally where it got its name from too.
Indian silks are an integral part of the traditional weaves of our country, especially saris. In fact, there are 11 different kinds of silk sarees that are prominently known in the Southern region of India itself; From Kanjivaram silk, Dharmavaram silk, Mysore silk, Arni silk, Kasavu silk and Pochampally silk to Konrad silk, Chettinad silk, Gadwal silk and Uppada silk.
But you can tell that you’re in possession of a Uppada silk sari by its lightweight nature. The fact that Uppada silk saris are created with Jamdani weave and you can identify it better with geometric and floral motives such as Gulab buti (rose flowers), Chameli buti (jasmine flower) and more on the sari. Jamdani weave is distinctly visible in Uppada silk saris for being a blend of zari and silver.
The Night Manager actor’s engagement sari was created using Bangalore silk and zari as a base using a ‘tilli’ technique. Uppada silk saris have been worn at many important occasions throughout the years, but of course, the concept of wearing a silk sari at one’s wedding is not a novel one in many South Indian cultures.
Take this as a sign to explore the rich array of weaves and fabrics indigenous to the country for your bridal trousseau.
Harshita Singh is a Digital Writer at Manifest and besides obsessing over aesthetic ‘IT Girl’ Sunday reset reels on Instagram, she finds joy in going down the rabbit hole of conspiracy theories, exploring new wellness practices and being mildly addicted to oat-milk coffees. View Profile
