Once upon a while, in the olden city of Varanasi, a fabric was born that would go on to define grace, tradition, and procedure. This fabric has a long, attractive history that connects extremely with the culture of India.
Many of us have always admired the style of a Banarasi saree at weddings, festivals, and other grand celebrations. I personally do. But have you ever tried to figure out why these sarees are so special and loved across India? Banarasi saree is called after Banaras, the olden city of Varanasi, where skilled artisans have been weaving these treasures for centuries.
The magic of the Banarasi saree lies in its complicated embroidery, done with real threads of gold and silver. Back in the day, silk was imported from China to make these sarees. But what makes them even more unbelievable is their rich cultural importance and originality, which have been passed down through generations.
What Makes Banarasi Sarees Worth the Money
It can take weeks sometimes months to build a single saree. Sometimes it will take a month to thread a Banarasi saree since so much work must be involved in creating its difficult embroidery with so much practice and patience. Of course, the long duration spent is what turns these sarees into jewels themselves. The moment you buy a Banarasi saree, you're actually not purchasing a fabric. So, by buying a piece of Indian heritage, that indeed becomes something that will last a lifetime and even to life through generations.
Why is Banarasi saree different from other sarees
The difference between Banarasi saree and other sarees is the fabric and weaving procedure. These sarees are made from the finest silk, and the real beauty comes from the zari work gold or silver threads complicatedly woven into stunning patterns. These designs are often encouraged by Mughal art, featuring flowers, paisleys, and leaves. Although Banarasi sarees tend to be heavier as compared to regular sarees, this extra heaviness that makes them all so appealing and classy. Wearing a Banarasi saree shows a unique look of elegance in one.
Categories of Banarasi Silk Sarees
What makes Banarasi sarees even more exciting is the variety available. There’s a perfect Banarasi saree for everyone.
Katan Silk: Lustrous and smooth, perfect for weddings.
Shattir: Lightweight and modern, ideal for casual occasions.
Organza (Kora): Sheer with beautiful zari work, perfect for a sophisticated look.
Georgette Banarasi: Easy to drape, great for contemporary styles.
Tissue Banarasi: Subtle shimmer, ultra-glamorous.
Every product has a unique demand, that provide different tastes and events.
How to Choose a Pure Banarasi Silk Sarees
As of Now, when you are ready to buy Banarasi sarees your own, here are some tips which you should look for before buying the sarees. Always check the back side of the saree. If it’s a original Banarasi saree, you’ll see intricate threads on the reverse side due to the handwoven process. Also, keep an eye out for the GI tag, which ensures authenticity. The fabric should feel smooth and rich, and the Zari work should sparkle without being too loud.
How to Take Care for a Banarasi Sarees
Taking Care for your Banarasi saree is just as important as owning one. Here’s what I do to keep my sarees looking gorgeous:
Dry Clean Only: Never wash it at home.
Store Properly: Keep it in a cotton bag to let it breathe.
Refold Regularly: Change the folds every few months to avoid permanent creases.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: It can fade the colours over time.
With proper care, your Banarasi saree will continue to shine and bring joy for many years.
Where to Buy Authentic Banarasi Sarees
Whenever you’re lucky enough to visit Varanasi, you’ll find some of the best local shops offering authentic and genuine Banarasi sarees. No worries if you're not planning on going there. You can find reliable online stores like Karagiri, Bharatsthali, and Kalaashree Sarees. Just make sure to read customer reviews to ensure you’re getting the real deal.
Conclusion:
After all, going by what I have lived through so far, a Banarasi saree is really not just clothing. In fact, it is almost a form of art work, a sense of how rich the culture of India is, and the symbol of tradition that lives on centuries. If you have not purchased yet, I recommend you add this beautiful product to your wardrobe. Whether it is a wedding, festival, or any celebration. Banarasi saree will never let you down. Trust me, you will always enjoy this after wearing it.