Chandan — Handwoven Dongria Kondh Tribal Saree

Some sarees carry more than fabric. Chandan carries a mountain.

Woven by the Dongria Kondh tribe of Odisha's Niyamgiri hills, this saree is a living piece of one of India's most distinctive tribal weaving traditions. The Dongria Kondh have woven their world into their cloth for generations — the sacred mountains, the forest, the geometry of their rituals — and you can see all of it in this pallu.

The body is soft sandalwood — a warm, earthy mauve with a gentle natural sheen and small scattered butti motifs in red and yellow. The border runs bold red with sharp black zigzag triangles — a Dongria Kondh signature, unmistakable to anyone who knows the tradition. And the pallu arrives in full colour: wide bands of teal, mustard, red and black, with bold tribal motifs — arched forms, geometric borders, layered patterns — ending in a dramatic row of long black tassels.

This is not a saree you buy. It is a saree you inherit.

Only one piece available.

Fabric & Craft

• Handwoven by Dongria Kondh artisans — Niyamgiri hills, Odisha
• Cotton-silk blend — soft body with a gentle natural sheen
• Scattered red and yellow butti motifs on the body
• Red border with black zigzag tribal motifs running the full length
• Wide multicolour tribal pallu — teal, mustard, red and black with geometric motifs
• Long black tassels 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 bright contrast blouse brings the pallu to life — yellow, teal, or red
• Silver oxidised jewellery — jhumkas, a simple necklace
• Keep makeup and accessories restrained — the saree is the statement
• Flat juttis or kolhapuris in tan or brown

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