The craze for authentic Mysore silk sarees reached a new high recently as hundreds of people were seen queuing up outside a showroom as early as 4:00 AM. A video capturing the massive crowd has gone viral across social media platforms, garnering several lakh views from multiple accounts.
The rush was witnessed outside the Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) showroom. Despite the early hour, people waited patiently for hours to get their hands on the iconic sarees, which are priced anywhere between Rs 23,000 and Rs 2.5 lakh.
According to Kannada Prabha, to manage the overwhelming demand for Mysore silk sarees, the corporation has implemented strict rules. A token system has been introduced, where only those who secure a token are allowed entry to the showroom. Additionally, each customer is limited to purchasing only one saree, ensuring that more people get a chance to buy these coveted garments. These measures aim to streamline the buying process and prevent any unfair advantage.
Watch the video here:
Women queue up from 4.00 AM outside a Karnataka Soviet (sorry Silk) Industries Corporation showroom to buy silk sarees starting from ₹23,000 and going up to ₹250,000. Only 1 saree per customer and you need a token to be in the queue.
— Rakesh Krishnan Simha (@ByRakeshSimha) January 20, 2026
There is an ongoing shortage (or more… pic.twitter.com/d100w3hql0
Why the Massive Crowds?
The primary reason behind the frenzy is a significant supply shortage. KSIC holds the exclusive Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Mysore silk, meaning they are the only official producers of the authentic fabric.
The production process is slow and meticulous because:
Limited Workforce: There is a shortage of skilled weavers and artisans.
Rigorous Training: It takes 6 to 7 months to train a new artisan to meet the corporation's high standards.
Quality Control: All production is handled strictly within KSIC's own facilities to maintain purity.
This isn't the first time a video of people lining up for sarees has gone viral; similar videos have gone viral in the past, showcasing the enduring demand for these prized textiles.
For many, the wait is worth it. Known for their rich gold zari and soft texture, these sarees remain a prized possession for women across the country, even if it means standing in line before sunrise.
Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world