About Us

Herbal Silks has a rich history that was developed by Siddha and promoted by the kings of Thamizhagam Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas, during the first century.

There is a wealth of evidence supporting the use of cloth processed with medicinally rich herbs for treating wounded soldiers during wartime. This treatment involves wrapping the wounded soldier in handloom fabrics dyed with herbal extracts, a practice known as cloth wrapping treatment.

Even now the famous martial art Kalaripayattu (കളരിപ്പയറ്റ്) which is based on all martial art throughout the world used Veeralipattu (വീരാളിപ്പട്ട്) are seen dressed in red (dyed with kumkum).

Currently, in various regions of India, newborn babies are being swaddled in herbal-infused towels as a method of immunization against microbial infections.

In South India, there are 18 Siddhas who are revered as ancient scientists and scholars for their significant contributions to various fields such as Medicine, Astrology, Astronomy, Vasthu, Martial Arts, and Meditation. Among their teachings, the Siddhas also imparted knowledge on the art of Ayurvedic dyeing and creating clothes with Ayurvedic properties.

One of the most prominent Siddhas was Agastiyar, who resided near Balaramapuram. Even today, there is a hill known as Agasthiyar Kooda, where he lived and shared his wisdom with his disciples. In honor of his contributions to Siddha and Ayurvedic Textile, a temple dedicated to Agasthiyar stands in Balaramapuram.

Following in Agasthiyar’s footsteps, his disciples continued to innovate in the field of Siddha, supported by the Cheras who ruled the southern part of Kerala from their capital in Padmanabhapuram. The weavers created Ayurvedic textiles that were supplied to kings and the royal family. However, with the onset of British rule in India, the Travancore kings (descendants of the Cheras) entered into an agreement with the British Government to avoid invasion and paid tributes. As a result, the significance of Ayurvedic textiles gradually losing its importance.

During the reign of His Highness Maharaja from 1799 to 1810, handloom weaving was introduced for the first time in Balaramapuram. The Delava of Maharaja Balaramavarma brought seven weaver families (Shaliars) from Tamil Nadu to revive the ancient method of textile production in Balaramapuram.

Under the leadership of the Maharaja and his Delava (Chief Minister), Ummini Thampi, a decision was made to transform Balaramapuram and its surrounding areas into an agro-based industrial hub, focusing on traditional industries such as paddy and coconut cultivation, fishing, weaving, and oil extraction. Specific streets were designated and infrastructure was improved to facilitate development.

Skilled traditional weavers were brought in from Tamil Nadu to produce Ayurveda Textiles in and around Balaramapuram, leading to the establishment of a thriving handloom cluster specializing in traditional clothing.

Balaramapuram Handloom is renowned for its intricate weaving patterns, designs, and luxurious feel against the skin. With over 2000 skilled handloom weavers dedicated to crafting these exquisite fabrics, we stand at the heart of the handloom cluster in Balaramapuram. In 2006, we spearheaded the Herbal Silks project, reviving ancient dyeing techniques with a modern twist.

Situated within the vibrant city of Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, India, Balaramapuram is a bustling panchayat known for its urban development. Nestled close to the famous Kovalam Beach, our location offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. As the exclusive hub for authentic Herbal Silks and Ayurvedic Textiles, we take pride in preserving and promoting these ancient practices.