Heritage and Recognition
Kuppadam Silk Sarees of Chirala: The Kuppadam silk sarees of Chirala, located in Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh, have received a national award under the Centre’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. This honour recognises the unique heritage, craftsmanship, and contribution of these handwoven sarees to India’s textile legacy.
Static GK fact: The ODOP scheme is run by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to promote unique products from every district across India, aiming to strengthen local economies.
Craft and Technique
Kuppadam sarees are known for their distinct “Koopadam” interlocking technique, created using three-shuttle weaving. These sarees are woven on traditional pit looms, with silk or cotton bodies and rich silk-zari borders. A defining feature is the temple-style motifs on the borders.
Static GK Tip: The Kuppadam technique involves a high thread count and fine weaving, making the sarees lightweight, durable, and suitable for various climates.
Revival Journey
Once facing decline due to rising powerloom competition and synthetic alternatives, the traditional Kuppadam saree almost disappeared. However, skilled weavers kept the tradition alive. The introduction of Bitra Pullaiah’s spring-in-shuttle technique allowed for smoother weaving and larger borders up to 12–15 inches.
Static GK fact: Originally used in Tamil Nadu for dhotis, the Kuppadam style was introduced in Chirala around 1998 and was adapted for saree production by local artisans.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Kuppadam sarees are deeply rooted in religious ceremonies, festivals, and traditional gift customs. Historically, Chirala’s weavers played a key role in the Swadeshi movement, promoting indigenous fabric production and boycotting foreign textiles.
The upcoming national award will be presented on July 14 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Bapatla district collector J Venkata Murali will receive the honour. This recognition is expected to:
- Boost domestic and international markets
- Revive interest among youth in traditional weaving
- Strengthen livelihoods of artisan families in the region
Innovation and Diversity
Today, Kuppadam sarees have evolved to include designs like Pythony, Tie-and-dye, and tissue sarees, attracting modern consumers. Efforts are also being made to secure a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, to protect and promote the originality of this craft.
Static GK fact: The name Chirala is derived from the Telugu word “chira” (saree), symbolising its identity as a weaving hub.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Kuppadam Silk Sarees of Chirala:
| Topic | Detail |
| Product | Kuppadam silk sarees |
| Location | Chirala, Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh |
| National Recognition | National award under ODOP initiative |
| Ceremony Date | July 14, 2025 |
| Venue | Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi |
| Unique Technique | Koopadam interlocking with three-shuttle weaving |
| Innovation | Spring-in-shuttle method allowing larger borders (12–15 inches) |
| Cultural Significance | Temple motifs, traditional ceremonial attire |
| Modern Adaptations | Pythony, Tie-and-dye, tissue sarees |
| Protection Measures | GI tag proposal in progress |
