About Gollabhama Saree Weaving Center
The Gollabhama Saree Weaving Center in Siddipet represents a centuries-old handloom tradition producing distinctive cotton and silk sarees featuring iconic milkmaid motifs. This GI-tagged craft is woven by skilled artisans from the Padmashali community using traditional pit looms and frame looms. Visitors can observe the intricate inlay weaving technique, interact with master weavers, and purchase authentic handwoven textiles directly from cooperative societies.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore weaving units where artisans demonstrate the traditional Gollabhama weaving process on century-old looms. The experience includes observing the complex inlay technique that creates the characteristic milkmaid motifs, interacting with remaining master weavers, witnessing the tie-dye process for some variants, and purchasing authentic handloom sarees from cooperative society showrooms. The weaving clusters are scattered across Siddipet town and nearby areas including Dubbaka, Cherial, Gajwel, and Koheda.
Key highlights
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GI-tagged traditional handloom craft recognized since 2012
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Distinctive milkmaid (Gollabhama) motifs inspired by pastoral women
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Traditional inlay weaving technique on pit looms and frame looms
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Interaction with master weavers from the Padmashali community
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Centuries-old weaving tradition with approximately 600 active looms
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Opportunity to purchase authentic handwoven cotton and silk sarees
History of Gollabhama Saree Weaving Center
The Gollabhama weaving tradition in Siddipet dates back approximately 200-300 years. Organized weaving flourished under local landlords and temple authorities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At its peak around the 1960s, Siddipet had over 2,000 weavers operating 250 looms. The craft survived British colonial disruption due to its focus on durable everyday fabrics. After independence, the sector experienced cycles of decline and revival through grassroots cooperatives. The craft received Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition in 2012.
Culture & Context
Gollabhama sarees are a potent symbol of Telangana's cultural identity and artisan resilience. The name derives from 'Golla' (cattle-rearing community) and 'Bhama' (woman), depicting milkmaid silhouettes carrying pots. The motifs celebrate rural womanhood and honor the labor of women who sustained villages through cattle-rearing. After Telangana's formation in 2014, Gollabhama sarees became icons of regional pride alongside Bathukamma festival and Bonalu rituals. The craft is recognized by UNESCO as an iconic textile craft of India.