Tussar silk is produced from wild silkworms rather than the cultivated Bombyx mori used for conventional silk, giving it a naturally golden-beige colour, a coarser texture and a matte sheen. It is more breathable, more sustainable and more affordable than cultivated silk, and is well suited to office wear, daily use and casual-formal occasions. Snyvia's saree collection starts from Rs.1,650. Free shipping. COD. 7-day returns.
For a full overview of all silk saree types, see our silk saree guide. This guide covers Tussar silk specifically, since it deserves more than a passing mention.
What Is Tussar Silk?
Tussar silk is produced from wild silkworms of the Antheraea species, found in forests across Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh. The silk threads are naturally coarser than cultivated silk, which gives Tussar its distinctive textured surface. Its natural colour is a warm golden-beige that requires minimal dyeing, and it has a matte sheen rather than the bright lustre associated with Mulberry silk.
Tussar vs Cultivated Silk (Mulberry Silk)
Tussar is coarser, which is a feature rather than a flaw, more matte, more breathable, more affordable, and carries a natural earthy colour. Mulberry silk is smoother, more lustrous and more expensive.
The decision rule: for daily wear and office, Tussar wins. For formal ceremonies and bridal wear, the Mulberry silk traditions such as Kanjivaram and Banarasi remain more traditionally appropriate.
Types of Tussar Sarees
- Pure Tussar: the natural golden-beige colour with minimal dyeing, the most traditional presentation of the fabric
- Dyed Tussar: colour-dyed in bright and jewel tones for a more contemporary look
- Embroidered Tussar: Kantha, Madhubani or block-printed work on a Tussar base, very popular and highly appreciated as a gift
- Tussar blends: combined with cotton or georgette for a lighter, more accessible everyday drape
Regional Tussar Traditions
Bihar's Bhagalpuri Tussar, known simply as Bhagalpuri silk, is the most widely available regional variety. Jharkhand also produces its own Tussar tradition, and West Bengal is known for combining Kantha embroidery on a Tussar base, one of the most sought-after craft-meets-fabric traditions in India.
Best Occasions for Tussar Sarees
Office and daily wear suit Tussar particularly well, since the matte texture reads as professional and deliberate. It also works beautifully for casual festive occasions, cultural events, gifting (especially Kantha-on-Tussar), and Diwali, where earthy tones paired with a festive blouse feel exactly right.
Styling a Tussar Saree
The earthy tones of Tussar pair beautifully with gold jewellery, terracotta accessories or wooden pieces. A contrast blouse in a complementary jewel tone adds visual interest. The fabric's natural texture also means it holds pleats well and is genuinely easy to drape.
Care for Tussar Sarees
- Handwash in cold water with a mild detergent
- Never machine wash
- The natural colour can bleed slightly in the first few washes, so wash separately at first
- Dry in shade
- Iron on medium heat on the reverse side
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Tussar and Mulberry silk?+
Is Tussar saree good for office?+
What is Bhagalpuri silk?+
Can Tussar sarees be machine washed?+
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