A Silk Saree that fits into a matchbox gifted to Goddess Bharamaraba

A handloom weaver from Sircilla, Telangana, N Vijaya Kumar, presents a matchbox-sized silk sari to Goddess Bhramaramba to Srisailam temple board chairman P Ramesh Naidu in Srisailam on Tuesday (July 14, 2026). | Photo credit: U SUBRAMANYAM

A handloom weaver from the famous textile town of Sircilla in neighboring Telangana state on Tuesday (July 14, 2026) presented a rare matchbox-sized silk saree to Goddess Bhramaramba at the Srisailam temple.

Handloom weaver Nalla Vijay Kumar, recipient of the ‘Kalaratna’ award, presented a saree to Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Pothugunta Temple Board Chairman Ramesh Naidu. Board member Kode Kanthivardhini also attended.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vijay Kumar said that he along with his family members wove this silk saree on a loom for a week. The saree measures 5.5 meters in length and 48 inches in width and weighs around 200 grams, Mr. Vijay Kumar explained. Designed in a traditional ‘Ikkat’ pattern, the saree can easily fit into a small matchbox when folded. He attributed the creation of this precious garment to the grace of the Goddess.

Accepting a special silk saree named Devasthanam, Mr. Ramesh Naidu praised Mr. Vijay Kumar for his talent and said that this traditional silk saree is a testament to the skill of our hand artisans.

A handloom weaver from Sircilla, Telangana, N Vijaya Kumar, presents a matchbox-sized silk sari to Goddess Bhramaramba to Srisailam temple board chairman P Ramesh Naidu in Srisailam on Tuesday (July 14, 2026). | Photo credit: U SUBRAMANYAM

He highlighted the importance of the handloom industry within the cultural fabric of the country and noted that handloom weaving is not only a profession but also a magnificent art form passed down from generation to generation. “Handloom textiles embody the creativity, craftsmanship and dedication of artisans,” said the Trust Board Chairman, urging all to support handloom products.

Special darshan arrangements were made for the handloom artisan and his team who presented the textiles.

Meanwhile, Mr. Ramesh Naidu conducted a surprise inspection of the front lines and the donation center and instructed the officials to give high priority to ensure comfortable darshan for the devotees.

He asked the officials to ensure uninterrupted supply of drinking water and snacks in the queues to avoid inconvenience to the devotees.

Published – 14 July 2026 4:00 PM IST