Muga silk is a rare variety of wild silk that is geographically tagged to the state of Assam in India. The silk is known for its extreme durability and has a natural yellowish-golden tint with a shimmering, glossy texture. Muga silk was recognized as a protected geographical indication (GI) in 2007, and was granted a GI logo for trademark purposes in 2014. The silk is made from semi-cultivated silkworms named Antheraea assamensis, which are the strongest natural fibres. Muga silk is produced only in Assam and nowhere else. The silk is used in making hats, caps, scarves, wraps, stoles, quilts, bridal wear, upholstery, sarees, and kurtas.
The production of Muga silk is still an important industry in Assam, providing employment to thousands of people and generating significant revenue for the state’s economy. However, the production of Muga silk is facing several challenges, including competition from synthetic fabrics and a decline in the availability of Som trees. Climate change and pollution are also affecting the production of Muga silk. Muga cocoons are formed with continuous filaments of 350-550m. For the production of 1kg of muga raw silk, 4500-5500 cocoons are required. The existing traditional methods of production are labour-intensive and require skilled workers.
Muga silk is one of the most expensive varieties of silk in the world. From silkworm rearing to the selection of cocoons and then to de-flossing, reeling, and weaving, the entire process adds to the uniqueness of the fabric-making Antheraea Assama, the scientific name of the Muga Silk, itself points to the place of origin of this exotic silk. Muga silk cloth is largely used by Assamese women as mekhela, riha-sador sarees. Eri spun silk is used for dress materials and the coarse variety for making scarves, chaddar, and shawls.
Muga silk is an important part of the cultural heritage of Assam and is used in making a variety of products, including sarees, mekhelas, chadors, and shawls. Muga silk is considered a symbol of Assamese heritage and tradition, making it a source of immense pride for the people of Assam. Muga silk is widely popular for its unique yellowish colour, which is a significant feature of traditional Assamese attire. These sarees are highly sought after for their natural sheen and exquisite beauty. Muga silk is used to create garments for special occasions such as weddings and religious ceremonies. The adoration of the muga silk garments with motifs and designs is the most crucial part of the Assamese culture and tradition. Muga silk is also used in making hats, caps, scarves, wraps, stoles, quilts, bridal wear, upholstery, and kurtas. Muga silk is one of the rarest silks in the world and is known for its extreme durability. It is the highest-priced among all other silk fibres.
Muga silk is different from other types of silk in several ways. Firstly, it has a natural yellowish-golden tint with a shimmering, glossy texture, which is a significant feature of traditional Assamese attire. Muga silk is also known for its extreme durability, making it one of the strongest natural fibres. It is the most expensive among all other silk fibres due to its exclusivity and rarity. Muga silk is produced only in Assam and nowhere else, and it is one of the rarest silks in the world. Muga silk is also allergen-free and repels dust mites, making it a hypoallergenic fabric. The production of Muga silk is considered eco-friendly as the silkworm does not require delicate care, making it an affordable silk type. The traditional designs and patterns used in Muga silk textiles are intricate and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Assam. The texture of Muga silk is slightly thicker and coarser compared to mulberry silk, and the silk fibres in Muga silk have a sturdy and robust nature, contributing to its strength and durability.
