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Mysore/Mysuru: With gold and silver prices soaring, the cost of Mysore Silk sarees has risen sharply, by about 8 to 10 percent and now ranges from Rs. 19,000 to Rs. 2.5 lakh depending on the  variety, design and texture.

Despite the higher prices, customers continue to flock to buy them, drawn by their distinctive colours, lightweight and elegant designs.

Officials said that when gold and silver prices plunged by up to 9 percent in futures trade on Feb. 1, 2026, hitting lower circuit levels ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, prices of Mysore Silk sarees also fell by Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000 on select models.

Taking advantage of temporary dip, women thronged outlets of Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC) in city, to buy sarees of their choice. The reduced prices lasted for over four days, during which the outlets witnessed heavy footfall and brisk sales.

Price hike

“In view of rising prices of gold and silver, we were compelled to hike the price of Mysore Silk sarees, which are woven with pure gold, silver and silk. Although the cost of raw materials has gone up, we have never compromised on quality, except for a modest price adjustment,” said B.A. Vinay, Manager (Finance and Accounts), KSIC.

“The price of each saree has been increased by about 8-10%, but sales have not fallen, as demand for Mysore silk sarees remains like ever,” he added.

Traditional and highly artistic

Silk sarees are produced across India — from Kanyakumari to Jammu and Kashmir — including Kanjeevaram in Tamil Nadu, Banaras in Varanasi, Paithani in Maharashtra, Patola in Gujarat and Muga in Assam.

However, none match the prestige of Mysore Silk, which is recognised as the only silk saree in India crafted with pure gold and silver zari. The production process remains deeply traditional and highly artistic.

The combination of pure silk with gold- and silver-coated zari makes them highly sought after and sets them apart in quality assurance. Even as prices climb in line with rising raw material costs, demand has remained resilient, unlike most commodities, where higher prices typically dampen sales.

Mysore Silk: Matter of prestige

Owning and wearing a Mysore silk saree is considered a matter of prestige. At weddings, receptions and other ceremonies, they symbolise luxury, honour and distinction and those who wear them are admired for  their elegance.

Production takes place at the KSIC unit on Manandavadi

Road, Mysuru. Such is the demand that buyers queue up as early as 4 am to purchase sarees.

Even then, only those at the front of the line succeed, while others often return empty-handed, reflecting the extraordinary and sustained popularity of Mysore Silk despite the recent price hike.