Syaahi Bangalori Silk Murky Black Hand Painted Dupatta

Which animals appear on it?

Elephants and deer, set among flower roundels and drawn in cream on a black ground. The cream leads the design, so the scene feels bright and lively, with green-gold side borders and tassels at the ends.

Will mine match the picture exactly?

Close, but each is painted by hand, so the animals, roundels and their spacing will vary a little. Screens also shift colour slightly. These differences are what make each piece one of a kind.

What does the border add?

The green-gold side borders frame the busy animal scene and bring a little gleam to the matte black. They also give you an easy cue for jewellery: gold or antique gold sits well with it.

Is it light to wear?

Yes. Bangalori silk is smooth and lightweight, so even with a dense design it doesn't feel heavy on the shoulder. It has an elegant drape and sits easily over a kurta or suit, letting the animal scene fall open as you move.

How should I store and iron it?

Store it folded in muslin in a cool, dry place. Iron on the reverse, not directly on the painted animals, and when it needs a wash, do it by hand, separately, with a mild detergent.

Which kurta colours work?

Solids in mustard, terracotta, olive, ivory or deep teal. Skip prints, since the animal scene already fills the outfit with pattern. A black kurta also works if you want the cream animals to carry the whole look.