What is Tasar Silk?
28-01-2024
10:38 AM
Overview:
Jharkhand's tableau in the recently held Republic Day parade showcased the skill of tribal women in the production of Tasar silk.
About Tasar Silk:
- It is a type of wild silk, which is made from silkwormsthat feed on plants like Asan and Arjun.
- People from different parts of India call it tusaar, tusser, tushar, tusa, tassore, and tasar etc.
- Producers:
o Globally, it is produced in China, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
o India is the second-largest producer of tussar silk and the exclusive producer of Indian tussar (also known as tropical tussar), which is largely tended to by tribals.
o In India, it is primarily produced in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chattisgarh. Currently, Jharkhand is one of the largest producers.
Features:
o It is famous and valued for its natural golden color. The silk can also be found in shades of brown, cream, and orange.
- The color is caused by the production process due to the presence of carotenoids in the silk.
o It is known for its distinctive texture, which is often described as being 'rough' or 'crinkly.'
- This is due to the fact that the fibers of tasar silk are shorter than those of other silks, such as mulberry silk.
- As a result, tasar silk fabrics are less smooth and have a more uneven surface.
o Tasar silk fabrics have a characteristic weave that is different from other types of silk.
- The threads of tasar silk are often thicker than those of other silks, and they are woven in a way that creates a 'checkerboard' pattern.
o It is lightweight yet surprisingly strong, with a luxuriously soft feel often compared to that of cashmere or velvet.
o It does not retain moisture, and this quality makes it a delight to wear in warmer climates of the world.
o Tasar silk is more porous, which makes it more wearable.
Q1: What is weaving?
Weaving is the production of fabric by interlacing two sets of yarns so that they cross each other, normally at right angles, usually accomplished with a hand- or power-operated loom.
Source:'khand's in R-Day parade showcases skill of tribal women in Tasar silk production