What is Tasar Silk?

About Tasar Silk:

• It is a type of wild silk, which is made from silkworms that feed on plants like Asan and Arjun.
• People from different parts of India call it tusaar, tusser, tushar, tusa, tassore, and tasar etc.
• Producers:
  • Globally, it is produced in China, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
  • India is the second-largest producer of tussar silk and the exclusive producer of Indian tussar (also known as tropical tussar), which is largely tended to by tribals. 
  • In India, it is primarily produced in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Currently, Jharkhand is one of the largest producers. 
• Features:
  • It is famous and valued for its natural golden colour. The silk can also be found in shades of brown, cream, and orange.
    • The colour is caused by the production process due to the presence of carotenoids in the silk.
  • It is known for its distinctive texture, which is often described as being 'rough' or 'crinkly.'
    • This is due to the fact that the fibres of tasar silk are shorter than those of other silks, such as mulberry silk.
    • As a result, tasar silk fabrics are less smooth and have a more uneven surface.
  • Tasar silk fabrics have a characteristic weave that is different from other types of silk.
    • The threads of tasar silk are often thicker than those of other silks, and they are woven in a way that creates a 'checkerboard' pattern. 
  • It is lightweight yet surprisingly strong, with a luxuriously soft feel often compared to that of cashmere or velvet. 
  • It does not retain moisture, and this quality makes it a delight to wear in warmer climates of the world. 
  • Tasar silk is more porous, which makes it more wearable.