Dhavala — Handwoven Dongria Kondh Tribal Saree

There is something about white that holds everything else more beautifully. Dhavala knows this.

Woven by the Dongria Kondh tribe of Odisha's Niyamgiri hills, this saree opens in luminous ivory — a soft, natural white with a gentle cotton-silk sheen and small multicolour butti motifs scattered across its surface like wildflowers on a hillside. The border carries the tribe's unmistakable signature: sharp red zigzag triangles, geometric and rhythmic, running the full length of the saree.

And then the pallu. Wide bands of mustard yellow and turquoise blue, separated by tribal borders with arched motifs — possibly the sacred hills, possibly the forest — in the Dongria Kondh's ancient visual language. It ends in soft white pompom fringe. Quiet, after all that colour.

The contrast is deliberate. The ivory body holds its breath. The pallu exhales.

This is not a saree you buy. It is a saree you are entrusted with.

Only one piece available.

Fabric & Craft

• Handwoven by Dongria Kondh artisans — Niyamgiri hills, Odisha
• Cotton-silk blend — luminous ivory body with natural sheen
• Scattered multicolour butti motifs on the body
• Red zigzag tribal border running the full length — Dongria Kondh signature
• Wide pallu in mustard yellow and turquoise with tribal arch motifs
• Soft white pompom fringe at the pallu edge
• Blouse piece included
• Saree length: approximately 6.7 metres including blouse piece

Drape & Feel

• Cotton-silk blend drapes with gentle structure and body
• Holds pleats beautifully
• Comfortable for extended wear
• Light starch recommended for a crisp first drape

Styling Ideas

• A cream or ivory blouse keeps the focus entirely on the pallu
• Bold contrast works too — mustard yellow or turquoise blouse to echo the pallu colours
• Silver or gold jewellery — keep it minimal, the saree leads
• Flat juttis or heeled sandals in tan, gold or white

Care

• Dry clean recommended for the first wash
• Subsequently: hand wash separately in cold water with mild detergent
• Do not wring — gently press and dry flat in shade
• Light iron on reverse side