Saraiki shawls, rooted in Multan and South Punjab, are a symbol of warmth, heritage, and cultural pride. Known for their bold colors, intricate patterns, and durable weaves, these shawls serve as both daily essentials and ceremonial attire. Whether you seek a Multani shawl for weddings or a South Punjab heritage shawl for gifting, the Saraiki weaving tradition offers timeless elegance.
Explore related guides on Bibriks: Complete Guide to Shawl Materials, Wool Shawls of Pakistan, and Men’s Shawls Collection.
🏔️ Origin & History: Saraiki Shawl Tradition
Multan, the "City of Saints," has been a center of textile and shawl weaving for centuries. The Saraiki shawl tradition is deeply tied to Sufi culture, with shawls often exchanged at shrines and spiritual gatherings. Artisans across South Punjab preserve their identity through weaving patterns passed down for generations.
References: Express Tribune, Dawn News.
🧵 Materials & Weaves
- Pure Wool: Durable and warm, ideal for winter wear. Learn more in Wool Shawls of Pakistan.
- Wool-Cotton Blends: Lighter for city winters, maintaining drape and breathability.
- Embroidered Shawls: Featuring threadwork inspired by Multani tiles and Sufi motifs.
🎨 Motifs & Embroidery
Saraiki shawls often showcase bold floral vines, geometric borders, and spiritual symbols. Motifs echo Multani blue pottery and Islamic art. Explore design themes at Bibriks: Paisley Motif Shawls, Nature & Garden Motifs.
👗 Styling for Women
- Daily Wear: A plain wool shawl with subtle embroidery.
- Festivals & Weddings: Vibrant red or maroon shawls complementing lehengas and maxis.
- Office & University: Lightweight blends for practical warmth.
See inspiration: How to Wear Shawls for Women.
👔 Styling for Men
- Formal: Dark wool shawl over a suit or shalwar kameez.
- Cultural: Embroidered borders for Eid and mehndi functions.
- Shrine Visits: A plain white or green shawl as a spiritual symbol.
Explore: Men’s Shawls Collection.
💰 Prices in Pakistan
| Type | Specs | Price Range (PKR) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Wool Shawl | Handloom, 4.5×9 ft | 2,500–7,000 | Daily wear, students, travelers |
| Embroidered Shawl | Floral & geometric motifs | 5,000–12,000 | Weddings, Sufi gatherings, gifting |
| Premium Wool Blends | Lighter, smoother feel | 8,000–15,000 | Formal & luxury wear |
✅ Buying Checklist
- Check for authentic handloom texture and even weave.
- Embroidery should be neat with secure knots.
- Beware of cheap synthetic imitations sold as “Multani wool.”
- Shop trusted sellers like Bibriks for guaranteed authenticity.
🎁 Common Uses
- Wedding gifts and dowry items.
- Sufi and cultural events across South Punjab.
- Daily winter wear for both men and women.
- Collectors’ heirlooms preserving Saraiki identity.
📚 External References
- Dawn News – Multan’s weaving culture
- Express Tribune – Textile industry insights
- UNESCO – Intangible Cultural Heritage
🧭 FAQs
Q1: Are Saraiki shawls good for winter?
Yes. Wool and wool-blend Multani shawls are warm, breathable, and perfect for Pakistan’s winters.
Q2: How are Saraiki shawls different from Kashmiri shawls?
Kashmiri shawls (like Pashmina) are finer and pricier, while Saraiki shawls are more durable and culturally tied to South Punjab heritage.
Q3: What is the price of a good Multani shawl?
Expect PKR 2,500–15,000 depending on material, embroidery, and grade. See Wool Shawls of Pakistan for benchmarks.
