Renowned Carnatic singer MS Subbulakshmi, was known not just for her songs but also for her gorgeous Kanjeervaram sarees. One particular saree colour is associated with her as it was specially made for her by a weaver in Kanchipuram. In the centenary year celebrations of MS Subbulakshmi, the ‘MS Blue’ is back in fashion!
Muthu Chettiar, a weaver in Kanchipuram, was also a stanch ‘rasika’ of MS Subbulakshmi. He had, in fact, given up his family profession of weaving and became a disciple of Naina Pillai who was a musician in Kanchipuram. However, when she passed away unexpectedly he had to return to his weaving profession for sustenance. His sarees were renowned at the time. He also had an elite set of customers who were willing to shell out more for his exquisite sarees.
In the 1960s, Muthu Chettiar wove a silk saree in a beautiful blue colour especially for MS Subbulakshmi. This saree became a rage as all the society ladies wanted a similar saree and this is how this colour came to be known as ‘MS Blue’ or ‘mayil kazhuthu kalar’.
Silk saree shops in Chennai all have sarees in this unique blue colour and the latest to join them will be Co-optex. Since this is the centenary year celebrations of the legendary singer MS Subbulakshmi. They are opting for a much lighter saree that will appeal to all ages of women.
Facts about MS Subbulakshmi:
- She studied up to Class 5.
- She cut her first album at the age of 10.
- She made her debut on stage at 17 at the Madras Music Academy.
- Her trademark look was her diamond earrings, nose ring and a bun with jasmine flowers.
- She gave away all the silk sarees that were gifted to her.
