Chirala handloom fabrics famous since times immemorial

Chirala Handloom Cluster (Chira means saree) was formerly known as "Ksirapuri" meaning (Sea like a Milk) is situated on the Bay of Bengal. Chirala town is well connected to the main railway line and NH 5 road line (Kokatta to Chennai). There is also an airline service from Vijayawada, which is just 110 km away.

The Chirala handloom Cluster is famous since times immemorial for producing variety of fabrics which brought name and fame to the nation as well as to this area. Even before the industrial revolution took place in the west, the rural artisan weavers of this area had done marvelous work of producing 7 yards of saree, which could be fit in a match box, which speaks of highest excellence in the art of weaving, unmatched skill and talent of the handloom cluster weavers.

During the 13th century, the Italian traveler Marcopolo had visited this area and he mentions about handloom weaving and exhibition of skills of the weavers in production of finer varieties and also reveals the historic evidence about attaining the peak of excellence in weaving skills.

In 1920 a group of weavers formed a Handloom Weavers Co-Operative Society. During 1952 a co-operative spinning mill was inaugurated by Sri Jhawarlal Nehru, first Prime Minister of independent India. This area is famous for its production of traditional varieties of zari sarees and dhoties which has sales limited to the local market.

In 1973, began the production of "Real Madras Hand Kerchiefs" manufactured with artsilk and zari (metallic thread glittering like gold) on jacquard looms and was exported to African countries. The introduction of this exportable variety and its popularity in the weavers of this area had not only improved the living conditions of the weaver but also contributed to earning foreign exchange for the nation.

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