Banarasi Silk Saree ; Types, Features, Models, Brands, and Price Range
Banarasi silk sarees are a type of traditional Indian saree made in the city of Varanasi, also known as Banaras. These sarees are known for their intricate designs and luxurious fabric, and are often worn by women on special occasions such as weddings and festivals.
There are several types of Banarasi silk sarees, each with its own unique features and designs. The most common types are Kora silk, Tanchoi, Vaskat, and Butidar. Kora silk sarees are made from pure silk and have a glossy finish. They are known for their gold and silver zari work, which is a type of embroidery using metallic threads. Tanchoi sarees are also made from pure silk, but have a more matte finish and feature intricate designs of flowers and birds. Vaskat sarees are made from a blend of silk and cotton, and have a slightly rough texture. They are known for their elaborate designs featuring geometric patterns and temple borders. Butidar sarees are made from silk and have a soft, lustrous finish. They are known for their all-over small butta designs, which are small, circular motifs.
In addition to these types, there are also several sub-types of Banarasi silk sarees based on the specific techniques used to create the designs. Some of these techniques include jacquard, cutwork, and brocade. Jacquard sarees are made using a special loom that creates intricate, raised designs. Cutwork sarees feature designs created by cutting away sections of the fabric, creating a lace-like effect. Brocade sarees are made using a special technique in which the design is created by weaving the fabric in a raised pattern.
Banarasi silk sarees are known for their intricate and ornate designs, which are created using a variety of techniques such as embroidery, weaving, and printing. The most common types of embroidery used on Banarasi silk sarees are zari work, stone work, and kasab work. Zari work involves embroidering the fabric with metallic threads, often in gold or silver. Stone work involves embroidering the fabric with small, sparkling stones. Kasab work involves embroidering the fabric with fine, silver wire.
In addition to embroidery, Banarasi silk sarees may also feature designs created through weaving or printing. Weaving techniques used on Banarasi silk sarees include jacquard and brocade, as mentioned previously. Printing techniques used on these sarees include screen printing and block printing. In screen printing, the design is created by pressing ink through a screen onto the fabric. In block printing, the design is created by pressing a carved wooden block onto the fabric, leaving a raised design on the fabric.
There are several brands that produce Banarasi silk sarees, each with its own unique style and aesthetic. Some of the most well-known brands include Rasi Silks, Prakash Silks, and Adi Mohini Mohan Kanjilal. Rasi Silks is a Chennai-based brand known for its traditional designs and high-quality fabric. Prakash Silks is a Bangalore-based brand known for its modern, fashionable designs and use of bright colors. Adi Mohini Mohan Kanjilal is a Kolkata-based brand known for its elegant, classic designs and use of traditional techniques such as zari work and stone work.
The price range for Banarasi silk sarees can vary widely depending on the brand, design, and quality of the fabric. Basic sarees made from a blend of silk and cotton may start at around Rs. 5,500 (approximately $75) while more luxurious, pure silk sarees with intricate designs may cost upwards of Rs. 50,000 (approximately $750). The price may also depend on the specific techniques used to create the designs, such as zari work or stone work, which can add to the overall cost.
In addition to sarees, Banarasi silk fabrics are also used to make a variety of other traditional Indian garments such as lehengas, dupattas, and salwar kameez. These garments are often worn on special occasions such as weddings and festivals, and are prized for their luxurious fabric and intricate designs.
Banarasi silk sarees are an integral part of Indian culture and are considered a symbol of elegance and refinement. They are often passed down from generation to generation and are considered a valuable possession. While they may be expensive, the high cost is justified by the attention to detail, craftsmanship, and quality of the fabric. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to add a touch of traditional glamour to your wardrobe, a Banarasi silk saree is a timeless and beautiful choice.
