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With various regions in India having their own kind of silk, Muga exclusively comes from Assam and is often known as the golden thread
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What sets Muga silk apart is its unique undyed golden-yellow yarn with a shimmering glossy texture. As such it was reserved only for the royals
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The silk is produced from semi-cultivated Muga silkworm, which feed on Som (Machilus bombycina) leaves. It is one of the most profitable businesses in Assam
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Muga is considered to be the most expensive silk in the world because its rare, production requires immense care and for its extreme durability
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From the cocoon, the golden yarns are obtained, which is the strongest natural fibre. Muga is prized also for the fact that its lustre increases with age
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The women folk use the yarn to weave the traditional Assamese attire called mekhela sador. Muga mekhela sadors are expensive and reserved for special occasions
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Muga is often woven along with other colourful threads to enhance its beauty. Occasionally, you will also find some attires with zari work
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Popular motifs include traditional patterns inspired by nature such as gos (tree), phul (flower), joon biri (moon) among others
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During Assam's main festival called Bihu, the locals dress up in beautiful handwoven traditional outfits featuring muga silk
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In recent times, Indian fashion designers have been giving a modern spin to muga, such as this chic outfit created by Samant Chauhan
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