Arani Silk

Arani silk refers to the pure silk sarees woven in and around the town of Arani in Tiruvannamalai district, a long-established handloom silk cluster. The sarees are known for their fine, close texture, soft drape and traditional zari borders, and are woven from mulberry silk yarn on jacquard and pit looms. Arani weavers are especially noted for producing lighter, everyday silk sarees at accessible prices, in addition to bridal pieces with elaborate pallu and border designs. The town's weaving tradition grew over generations into a major supply centre for silk sarees sold across Tamil Nadu and beyond. Employing thousands of weaver families and allied workers in dyeing, warping and zari work, Arani silk remains an important pillar of the district's handloom economy.