Pics: Umesh Marpalli

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Dec 19: Mysuru silk products are a part of Karnataka’s heritage and history. Mysuru silk sarees are well-known for good quality and durability, said Udupi deputy commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis at Mysuru silk saree exhibition.

She was speaking at the inauguration of the four-day expo and sale of Mysuru silk sarees, organised by Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) at Diana Hotel, Udupi on Wednesday, December 19.

“I can stand witness to the quality of the sarees. I have purchased a saree from KSIC factory in Mysuru when I was a probationary officer. It still looks as good as new. KSIC encourages farmers by purchasing silk directly from them. Nowadays, traditional and modern design sarees are receiving high demand at competitive market rate. Mysuru Silk sarees is the pride of everyone in the state,” she said.

KSIC market division manager Bhanu Prakash said, “Mysuru silk sarees are made of excellent quality silk, and pure gold is woven in traditional saris. We are using 0.65 gold and 65 % silver. The designs are available in traditional and modern patterns also. We have got Geographical Identification Registration number and the chief minister's annual gem was awarded in the year 2016-17. Consumers are also demanding the sarees online and we will manufacture them as per the interest of customers.”

The expo cum sale is open from 10 am to 8 pm on second floor, Diana hotel, Udupi.

There are 1,000 sarees in the collection. Bridal, printed, strives (tri colour) are available in the expo. The price range starts from Rs 5,500 to Rs 15,000. There is a discount from 10% up to 25% on sarees.

KSIC received turnover of Rs 8 crore in 2016-17 and Rs 175 crore in 2017-18. The next year target is Rs 180 Crore and KSIC has already reached Rs 145 crores.