RAJANNA-SIRCILLA: From weaving a cloth featuring the logo of India’s G20 presidency and earning praises from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promoting Rajanna Siripattu sarees on the global stage, the artisans of Sircilla have consistently showcased their exceptional craftsmanship.
In a small shed located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Sircilla town’s new bus station, the air is filled with the fragrance emanating from a saree woven using 27 different herbs by Nalla Vijay, a 35-year-old handloom weaver, whose weaving skills has captured the hearts of many.
Vijay is the torchbearer of a weaving legacy passed down by his father, the late Nalla Parandamulu. His creations include a jari saree crafted from gold and silver threads of these precious metals and a colour-changing saree valued at Rs 2.08 lakh. Currently, Vijay is working on a reflective saree using half-a-kilogram gold, estimated to cost Rs 25 lakh and set to be unveiled soon with the support of MA&UD Minister KT Rama Rao.
Vijay’s father had woven a saree that could be folded and tucked into a matchbox. Building on this legacy, Vijay even holds a record for weaving a saree so fine that it can pass through the eye of a needle.
“I aspire to become a master weaver and constantly strive to weave unique designs that are not readily available in the market,” says Nalla Vijay. His skills have garnered orders from renowned personalities within the State and beyond.
Recognising his contributions, the State government bestowed upon him the prestigious Cheneta Kala Ratna award. Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao personally presented the award to Vijay.
Notably, Vijay’s craftsmanship reached international recognition when he presented a finely woven shawl and saree to the then US President Barack Obama and his spouse, Michelle Obama, courtesy of PM Modi.
Vijay’s creations include a jari saree crafted from gold and silver threads of these precious metals and a colour-changing saree valued at Rs 2.08 lakh. Currently, he is working on a reflective saree using 0.5 kg of gold, estimated to cost Rs 25 lakh and set to be unveiled with the support of Minister KT Rama Rao