The seat of our mythology and ancient beliefs, the city of Banaras is nothing short of a trip to heaven. This is the place where the circle of life ends, and we prepare ourselves for the journey ahead. Getting immersed in the holy waters of Ganga is a blessing that allows us to join our ancestors. But these religious practices are not the only thing that connects us to our roots. It is the tradition and the culture in this place that makes us want to be associated with it. One such tradition that took birth amidst these beliefs was the art of weaving a silk saree we know today as the Banarasi saree.
An ancient skill that has been preserved for over 2000 years, the art of weaving a pure banarasi silk saree is mastered by only a few. Holding immense significance, it is a must in every Indian bridal trousseau. This saree transcended beyond regional and cultural boundaries and was the chosen attire by different sets of royal families and aristocrats.
The Wedding Connection
The significance that a Kanjivaram saree holds in the south of India, the Banarasi silk saree means for the northern part of India. Used primarily as auspicious bridal attire, this saree has glorified uncountable brides since immemorial times. Every little girl imagines herself being decked up in a rich banarasi from her mother’s collection on her wedding day. Adorned with beautiful gold or pearl jewellery, our brides feel nothing less than a queen on their special day.
A wedding dress holds a special place in our hearts. It serves as a joyful reminder of that special day of holy matrimony and makes the bride the centre of attraction. But, the bridal dress does more than just seek attention. They play a pivotal role in our well-being and shower blessings in disguise. The fine silk threads, along with pure silver and gold zari, are a sign of prosperity and symbolic of virtues. A pure fabric saree becomes a treasured piece in our wardrobe and is passed from generation to generation as a family heirloom. No gift is as precious as the one we inherit from our forefathers, each containing a piece of their history. A bridal banarasi saree is one such timeless asset that appoints us as the torchbearer of that precious legacy.
Design Evolution of Banarasi Saree
Woven on the banks of Kashi, the banarasi saree design has evolved to accommodate different patterns and motifs. Like most Indian silks, the designs in this saree originally included floral patterns and inspirations from nature. However, the advent of several rulers to this region made the weavers incorporate those changes. The current Banarasi designs include intricate motifs and pattern detailing on the saree that have cultural significance and have been inspired by Mughal architecture. During the Victorian era, the weavers also introduced geometric patterns.
The patience and hard work of the artisans have given us the opportunity to adorn ourselves with exquisite designs that would otherwise look unattainable by the human hand. The overall Jaal work consisting of intricate floral patterns all over the body of the saree, is a wonder in itself. The evenly spaced butidar work requires each design to be created by hand, with real silver and gold zari. When wearing the saree, we can feel the same pride the workers feel when completing their masterpieces. Our patronage of these art forms is our way of showing respect and admiration for their work. It takes immense skill to make a person feel regal, but these banarasi saree types fulfil this task with ease.
The Adaptations of Banarasi
The banarasi saree price we pay has been dependent on the variety of the saree we are purchasing. Classified on the basis of fabrics and designs, we see some prevalent varieties such as Katan, Kora, Georgette, Shattir, Butidar, Cutwork, Cotton, and Silk banarasi. Like each saree tells its own unique story, these individual types have emerged due to different circumstances and requirements. Banarasi georgette sarees help us look ethereal and trendy as they enhance our natural looks. Cotton banarasi saree is a regular alternative to heavy-maintenance silk pieces. The shattir, cutwork, and butidar all have distinctive design patterns.
A few unique types of Banarasi sarees you can look out for are:
1. Jangla Banarasi
This Mughal-inspired design of intricate jaalis, all through the body of the saree, is what sets it apart.
2. Banarasi Jamdani
Jamdani is a traditional saree weave from the eastern part of India. Combined with banarasi motifs, this saree is the perfect example of beauty with grace.
3. Kadwa Banarasi
The beautiful Kadwa pattern uplifts the elegance of a Banarssi saree multifold. It makes the saree look stunning.
4. Banarasi Tanchoi Saree
This saree is a traditional saree that was used by royal families for religious and festive events. Its satin finish provides it with an ethereal, shimmering look.
5. Banarasi Georgette Bandhani
Banarasi prints on a georgette bandhani fabric are nothing short of regal. Get yours only at Kankatala.
Current Scenario of the Treasured Art
An art form that has given us an identity for hundreds of years is sure to find a place in the heart of many people. Many celebrity brides have understood the true value of this timeless classic and are adding it to their ethnic trousseau. Traditional brides still choose to dress themselves up in a red bridal banarasi saree, whereas others keep it for their post-wedding look. Complete with heavy gold jewellery, floral gajra, and a joyful smile; this saree has the potential to steal our hearts.
A True Blessing in Disguise
As parents, we share a common dream of dressing up our little girl for her big day in the most beautiful way possible. Though we wish the best for our daughters all the time, on this day, we expect them to be treated like the true princesses they are. Draping a timeless banarasi saree brings out her beauty naturally. The way we invest in our child’s betterment and aspire for them to become the best is the way we at Kankatala have worked to produce the purest quality sarees for all. We aim to contribute to the bride’s happiness on her special occasion and have been successful in doing the same for 79 years. To buy banarasi saree online, check out our extensive collection of handwoven banarasi silk saree perfect for bridal wear, events and other functions.
