One of India's most elaborate and stunning outfits is the Banarasi saree, which is worn all over the nation during weddings and special occasions. All generations adore this bridal favorite for its unrivaled beauty and splendor. Varanasi, an ancient city, and the nearby villages are the only places where Banarasi sarees are made, using special methods and distinctive patterns.
This ethnic garment is stunning due to the numerous complex and intricate designs woven into six yards. Despite advancements in technology, this Banarasi saree is still woven by hand in Varanasi, using intricate designs made of gold and silver threads. Every woman's first choice for sarees now is one of these stunning and sophisticated garments. Women all over the world have come to love their stylish and exotic weavings by designers who use zari, motifs, and emeralds.
The dual influence of Mughal and Hindu cultures on the textile and designs are primarily responsible for the distinctive appearance of these woven silk sarees. In particular, fine varieties of silk and muslin have long been produced in abundance in Banaras or Varanasi for aristocrats and royalty.
Origin of Banarasi Silk Sarees
The Hindu mythology of the Ramayana, which was popular between 1000 and 300 B.C., is where Indian sarees first appeared. The Mughal Empire brought intricate weaving and design skills from Banarasi silk to India. The Mughals and Indian cultures are mixed in modern-day Banarasi silk. Silk for this saree used to be imported from China; today, silk is sourced from southern regions of India.
The intricate designs of intertwining flowers, figures, jal or net and leaves,, as well as the tight weave, metallic sheen, gold work, and fine feel, set Banarasi silk apart from other types of silk. The Banarasi saree is made from the finest materials, including soft southern Indian silks and fine gold and silver zari threads.
In the past, only Chinese silk and genuine gold and silver were used to make Banarasi sarees, and each one had a completely distinct pattern. Although it still takes up to a year to make these one-of-a-kind sarees, most Banarasi sarees today use less expensive alternatives like gold-plated bronze threads to satisfy consumer demand. They are either made of kora (raw) silk or brocade, also known as organza, and decorated with gold or silver zari and silk. They are divided into sub-types like Jangla, Tanchoi, cutwork, Tissue, and butidar depending on the designs and materials used.
Pure Banarasi silk sarees are still the most popular choice among brides, not only because they are the most opulent-looking option, but also because they are a traditional component of the bridal trousseau in north India.
