Assam is the home of several types of silks, the most prominent and prestigious being Muga (Mooga or Moonga as some pronounce), the golden silk found exclusively in this state. The texture is delicate, with dainty designs and natural colors.
Muga silk is the product of the silkworm "Antherea assamensis" endemic to Assam. The pupa of these silkworms feed on "som" ("Machilus bombycina") and "sualu" ("Litsaea polyantha") leaves. The silk produced is known for its glossy fine texture and durability. Due to its low porosity the Muga yarn cannot be bleached nor dyed and its natural golden color is retained. This silk can be hand-washed with its luster increasing after every wash. Very often the silk outlives its owner.
Apart from Muga silk, there is Pat (Assam Silk) and Eri or Endi, the latter being used to manufacture warm clothes for winter. The silk commonly found in Assam is non-mulberry silk. Pat which is mulberry silk is found in small quantities. Endi is yellowish in color and is found in rough and smooth varieties.
Pat silk is produced by silkworms which feed on mulberry (Morus spp.) leaves. It is usually brilliant white or off-white in colour. Its cloth can dry in shadow.
The Muga unique silk is mostly found in Assam only. The reason is - Muga Silk Worms cannot survive in any climate other than that of Assam or North East. Muga, the golden silk, produced by silkworms are native only to Assam and nowhere in the world.
Size: Length: 5.5 meters (Standard) Blouse piece attached
