The original kasavu cloth was made by hand from cotton yarn and the borders from golden threads. It is believed to date back to the Buddhist era and continues to be worn by Malayalis, the residents of Kerala. It is worn by both women and men, especially during festivals, dance programs, and special occasions such as weddings and pirannu naals (birthdays according to the local calendar.) During the Vishu festival, it is customary to place a brand new kasavu cloth near the traditional Vishukkani (lamp) as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. During dance performances such as the Mohiniyattam (dance of Vishnu in female form), only kasavu garments are worn by participants. Dances such as Kaikottikali or Thiruvathirakali (dance of clapping) also have women performers wearing kasavu sarees and traditional red blouses. Generally Kaikottikali is performed by 8-10 women, but can include more participants; the world record for the largest number of Kaikottikali performers is 2643 women at a time!