Each saree has its own unique story to tell, and its motifs act as the storytellers. The Banarasi weaving pattern is one of the most unique and loved saree designs in India. The patterns always tell you about the tale of the craft and the history of the respective weaving gharanas.
Much like the rich cultural heritage of the temple city of Benaras, the Banarasi weave remains a timeless work of art in sarees. Today, we are going to look at some amazing Banarasi motifs and patterns, including the beautiful stories behind them.
Banarasi Motifs to Adorn Your Wardrobe
Banarasi sarees are one of the most celebrated pieces of clothing in the world. From little functions to the grandest weddings, each occasion in Indian households is incomplete without women’s dazzling Banarasi sarees. One of the major reasons why these sarees are so famous is the Banarasi motifs, with the rich gold and silver zari work.
The designs and patterns of Banarasi motifs are said to have accumulated over time by weavers and artisans who settled in Benaras from different places in the country. The Mughal rulers were said to be quite fond of these weaves, and it is under their patronage that this art form is considered to have flourished.
Here is a look at these outstanding patterns:
Paisley or Buto
The paisley motif is rich in symbolic and spiritual meaning. The paisley usually signifies the time of harvest in India, a time of socio-economic significance. This particular motif was earlier made for the King of India for crowns or court garments. Apart from the Banarasi sarees, the paisley motif is widely used in beautiful Kanchipuram sarees, Buttidar Baluchari sarees, and Dhakai Jamdanis.
Floral Jaal
It is the most loved and cherished Banarasi motif for sarees. These floral and leafy patterns have ruled millions of hearts across the world for years. The introduction of florals in Banarasi sarees dates back to the 17th century, when silk weavers from Gujarat resettled in the region. Yet, the real use of these floral Banarasi motifs on clothing happened in the Mughal era, which also had a huge impact on the Banarasi weaving industry.
Mangaai / Mankolamaam / Kaccha Mango Motif
Mango is considered an auspicious fruit and plays a prominent place in Indian mythology. Famous Kings of India like Akbar and Jahangir have patronized the arts associated with this fruit and used the mango motif in their jewels, palaces, and even dresses.
This Banarasi motif design has become highly popular and is currently one of the most widely used designs in saree weaving. The mango motif has conquered its place in the Banarasi weaving industry as a symbol of prosperity, abundance, and richness.
Bel Buti
Also called the creeping vine motif, this particular pattern is said to have originated in Persia. Later, the Mughals adopted this Banarasi motif for their dresses. Its thin, leafy, curvy stems are often embellished with flowers, buds, and fruits. These beautiful patterns have inspired weavers to create incredible patterns on Banarasi sarees. Thus, Buti is a famous floral motif found in sarees that is truly artistic.
These stunning bel butta motifs can be either big or small. So, the Banarasi weavers create geometrical patterns across the saree using the same patterns. They also use multiple hues on the clothing that give the bel butta patterns a new gaze.
Floral Butta
The floral butta motif is one of the oldest and most appreciated designs among weavers. These Banarasi motifs are intrinsically placed throughout the whole saree to ensure a stunning and eye-catching creation. The buttas of these motifs can be woven with either a golden or silver zari.
A few weavers also prefer using colorful threads to contrast the saree’s base. The red Banarasi saree is an exceptional illustration of this particular motif. These sarees are ornamented with floral butta motifs, which gives them a mystical charm.
Jangla
These Banarasi motifs are considered among the oldest designs ever crafted on beautiful sarees. These special motifs replicate the Jagala vegetation, which is richly decorated throughout the six yards. Its difference from Floral Jaal lies in the use of leaves, branches, and creepers, while floral jaal predominantly displays flowers.
For the uninitiated, the word “jangla” implies “jungle,” which is also depicted throughout the saree through intricate patterns. These unique motifs are said to exude a sense of happiness, luxury, and unrivaled elegance.
Shikargarh
These Banarasi motifs precisely portray hunting scenes. The origin of this kind of design is unknown, but it is thought to have originated in Persia. The Shikargah designs feature elements showcasing themes of animals, forests, and hunting. They also display figures of humans, birds, and animals. The hunting patterns often bring out the sareeās elegance like nothing else.
Final Thoughts
The magnificence of Banarasi motifs cannot be compared or even replicated in any other weave in the world. These pristine-looking motifs are often made using one of the three weaving techniques: cutwork, brocade, or Kadhwa. You can find various floral motifs, Shikargah motifs, buttis, and other patterns when searching for such motifs and patterns that entice you with their distinguished appeal and impeccable craftsmanship. You can visit Kankatala anytime if Banarasi motifs in sarees entice you. Get the best quality sarees at the most affordable prices only on this platform.
