Banarasi Sarees

What is a Banarasi saree?

A Banarasi saree is a traditional saree from the city of Varanasi (also known as Banaras) in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. These sarees are known for their intricate designs and delicate craftsmanship, and are often made of silk or a silk blend. They are characterized by their gold and silver zari work, as well as their use of natural dyes. Banarasi sarees are considered to be a symbol of elegance and are often worn at formal occasions, such as weddings and parties. They are also popular as bridal wear.

What’s Special About Banarasi Sarees?

There are several things that make Banarasi sarees special

1. Intricate designs: Banarasi sarees are known for their intricate gold and silver brocade or zari work and delicate embroidery. These designs are created using fine threads and are often inspired by traditional Indian motifs such as flowers, animals, and geometric patterns.
2. High-quality materials: Banarasi sarees are often made of fine silk or a silk blend, which gives them a luxurious and elegant feel. The high-quality materials used to make Banarasi sarees make them a symbol of wealth and status in India.
3. Cultural significance: Banarasi sarees have a long and rich cultural history in India. They are traditionally made in the city of Varanasi, also known as Banaras, in Uttar Pradesh, and have been worn by women for centuries as a symbol of cultural pride and identity.
4. Versatility: Banarasi sarees can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions. They can be worn to formal events such as weddings and parties or dressed down for everyday wear.
5. Timeless style: Banarasi sarees are classic and timeless garments that never go out of style. They are a popular choice for special occasions such as weddings and other formal events and are also often given as gifts to celebrate important milestones and achievements.

 Which saree is famous in Banarasi?

Banarasi sarees are a type of traditional Indian garment that originated in the city of Varanasi, also known as Banaras, in Uttar Pradesh. They are known for their intricate gold and silver brocade or zari work and delicate embroidery and are often made of fine silk or a silk blend.

Banarasi sarees are famous for their luxurious and elegant appearance and are often worn on special occasions such as weddings and formal events. They are also popular as gifts for brides and other important occasions.

There are several different types of Banarasi sarees, each with its own unique characteristics and features. Some of the most famous types of Banarasi sarees include:

Katan silk Banarasi sarees: These sarees are made from a high-quality type of silk called Katan, which is known for its soft and smooth texture. Katan silk Banarasi sarees are typically more expensive than other types of Banarasi sarees due to the rarity and quality of the silk.

Jamdani Banarasi sarees: These sarees are known for their intricate and fine muslin fabric and are considered to be some of the finest Banarasi sarees. They are made using a traditional handwoven technique that involves creating intricate designs using a shuttleless loom.

Overall, Banarasi sarees are famous for their luxurious and elegant appearance and are a popular choice for special occasions and as gifts in India and around the world. 

What are the Different Types of Banarasi Sarees?

There are several different types of Banarasi sarees, each with its own unique characteristics and features:

1. Pure silk Banarasi sarees: These sarees are made from silk and are known for their luxurious and elegant feel. They are often more expensive than other types of Banarasi sarees due to the high cost of silk.
2. Silk blend Banarasi sarees: These sarees are made from a blend of silk (70% Pure silk and 30%man made fibres) and other materials such as cotton or polyester. They are generally less expensive than pure silk sarees and may be more suitable for everyday wear.
3. Katan silk Banarasi sarees: These sarees are made from a high-quality type of silk called Katan, which is known for its soft and smooth texture. Katan silk Banarasi sarees are typically more expensive than other types of Banarasi sarees due to the rarity and quality of the silk.
4. Georgette Banarasi sarees: These sarees are made from a lightweight and flowy fabric called georgette. They are a popular choice for summer wear due to their breathability and comfort.
5. Art silk Banarasi sarees: These sarees are made from a synthetic material called art silk, which is designed to look and feel like real silk. They are generally less expensive than pure silk or silk blend sarees and are a popular choice for everyday wear. Overall, the type of Banarasi saree you choose will depend on your personal preference, budget, and the occasion you are planning to wear it. 

Banarasi Sarees for wedding

Banarasi sarees are traditional Indian sarees that originated in the city of Varanasi, also known as Banaras, in Uttar Pradesh. They are known for their intricate gold and silver brocade or zari work and delicate embroidery, and are often made of fine silk or a silk blend. They are popular for weddings and other special occasions because of their luxurious and elegant appearance.

To wear a Banarasi saree for a wedding, you will need to follow the traditional draping style for sarees. First, you will need to wrap the saree around your waist, with one end of the saree draped over your shoulder. Next, you will need to tuck the other end of the saree into the waistband at the back and bring it around to the front, making pleats as you go. Finally, you can adjust the pleats to your desired length and tuck them into the waistband at the front.

It is also common to wear a matching or coordinating blouse with a Banarasi saree. You can choose a blouse with similar embroidery or zari work as the saree, or you can opt for a more simple design to let the saree be the star of the show.

In addition to the saree and blouse, you can accessorize your wedding look with traditional Indian jewelrjewelleryas bangles, earrings, and a necklace. You may also want to consider wearing a bindi, which is a decorative dot worn on the forehead, and applying henna to your hands and feet for added cultural significance and beauty.

How to Drape a Banarasi Saree?

Here are a few styling tips for Banarasi sarees:

Choose a coordinating blouse: To complete the look, choose a coordinating blouse with similar embroidery or zari work as the saree, or opt for a more simple design to let the saree be the star of the show.

Accessorize: Add some traditional Indian jewelry such as bangles, earrings, and a necklace to complete the look. You may also want to consider wearing a bindi, which is a decorative dot worn on the forehead, and applying henna to your hands and feet for added cultural significance and beauty.

Choose the right footwear: Opt for a pair of comfortable and stylish sandals or heels to complete your look. Avoid wearing shoes with a closed toe, as it can be difficult to fit your foot into the footwear while wearing a saree.

Consider the occasion: If you are wearing a Banarasi saree to a formal event such as a wedding, you may want to consider adding a dupatta (long scarf) to your look for added elegance and coverage.

Play with the pleats: Experiment with different pleat styles to find a look that suits you. Some options include wearing the pleats at the front, back, or side of your waist, or letting them hang loose for a more relaxed look.

By following these styling tips, you can create a beautiful and sophisticated look with your Banarasi saree.

How to maintain the Banarasi saree?

Here are a few tips for maintaining a Banarasi saree:

Dry clean only: Banarasi sarees are typically made of fine silk or a silk blend and are delicate, so it is important to handle them with care. They should be dry cleaned only to preserve their quality and appearance.

Avoid getting the saree wet: Banarasi sarees should be kept away from water as much as possible to prevent damage. Avoid getting the saree wet or damp, and try to protect it from spills and stains.

Store the saree properly: Banarasi sarees should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration. They should be hung up or carefully folded and stored in a garment bag to prevent creasing and damage.

Avoid ironing: Banarasi sarees should not be ironed, as the heat can damage the fabric and embellishments. If the saree becomes wrinkled, you can try using a steamer or gently pressing the fabric with a cool iron, being careful not to press too hard.

By following these tips, you can help to preserve the quality and appearance of your Banarasi saree and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How to recognize Banarasi saree?

Banarasi sarees are known for their intricate designs and high-quality silk. They are traditionally made in the city of Varanasi, India, and have a distinctive look and feel. Here are a few ways to recognize a Banarasi saree:

1. Silk Fabric: Banarasi sarees are made from a specific type of silk called "Banarasi silk" which is produced in the region. The silk is known for its fine texture, softness, and shine.

2. Embroidery: Banarasi sarees are known for their intricate designs, which are created using a technique called "zari work" which is a type of gold thread work used to create designs on the sarees. The designs often include traditional motifs such as flowers, paisleys, and geometric patterns.

3. Color: Banarasi sarees are known for their rich and vibrant colors, which are achieved by using natural dyes. The sarees are often dyed in shades of red, maroon, green, and gold.

4. Weight: Banarasi sarees are heavy sarees due to the amount of zari and other embellishments work on it, which makes it more luxurious.

5. Pallu: The Pallu of a Banarasi saree is usually heavily embroidered, with intricate designs and patterns.

6. Border: The border of a Banarasi saree is usually wide and heavily embroidered with zari work, adding a rich and luxurious look to the saree.

It's important to note that there are many imitations and knock-offs of Banarasi sarees available on the market, so it's important to purchase from a reputable vendor to ensure that you are getting an authentic product.

2. Can we iron Banarasi saree?

Yes, use very low heat or put your silk sari under a cotton cloth while ironing it. The steam iron is the best option as there are almost nil chances of any harm happening to the silk sari. If you are ironing cotton saris, use dry iron as it is the best.

3.How to choose Banarasi saree?

There are many variations in banarasi saree depending on its style and design. Some of them are Katan banarasi, Shattir banarasi, Kora banarasi, georgette banarasi, jangla banarasi, tanchoi banarasi, cutwork banarasi, butidar banarasi etc. if you are tall and slim, then go for banarasi saree with heavy embellishments, large motifs and heavy borders on it. And if you are short, then go for light colours, vertical prints and short borders for the saree. It is needless to say that the colour of your banarasi saree should complement your skin complexion. So, take the decision wisely. But on top of everything, red banarasi saree will always enhance the bridal look.

4.What is the difference between Kanjivaram and Banarasi saree?

Banarasi sarees and kanjivaram sarees are the two most adored Indian sarees. They both come under the category of finely woven sarees and yes both are equally famous worldwide. Since both have their unique specialties, you might wonder how to choose the right one for your special occasion. The luxurious kanjivaram sarees are woven entirely using mulberry silk thread with a joint placed between the pallu and the body of the saree, called pinti.Banarasi sarees are created using intricately prepared silk. These sarees are made of light hues with beautiful patterns on both sides of the border. The lovely designs of the kanjivaram sarees are based on Hindu mythologies, historical events,  and religious structures. The broad border of these sarees is created with beautiful patterns like checks, stripes, and flowers. The artwork in banarasi sarees are consist of Mughal pictures, floral, or leaflike motifs, or bel, a string of leaves that is created around the edge of the border. 

There is an enormous variety of kanjivaram sarees when it comes to designs, patterns, and styles. Some of the most adored kanjivaram sarees are temple border kanjivaram sarees, plain kanchipuram saree, traditional kanchipuram saree, kanjivaram saree with silk border, floral weave kanjivaram saree, etc. Banarasi sarees hold a considerable influence on the sarees markets, because of their diverse range of classifications. Some of the highly preferred banarasi sarees are shattir banarasi saree, shikargarh banarasi saree, tanchoi banarasi saree, tussar banarasi saree, georgette banarasi saree, etc.

5. Which Colour is best for Banarasi saree?

 Traditionally, Banarasi sarees are known for their golden and silver zari work, which is why colors such as red, maroon, and green are popular choices as they complement the metallic work well. Other popular colors for Banarasi sarees include shades of pink, purple, and orange. Ultimately, the best color for a Banarasi saree is a matter of personal preference.

6.How to look slim in Banarasi saree?

Here are a few tips on how to look slim while wearing a Banarasi saree:

1. Choose a saree with a lightweight fabric, such as georgette or chiffon, as they drape well and don't add bulk.

2. Opt for sarees with vertical stripes or prints, as they tend to create a slimming effect.

3. Avoid sarees with heavy embroidery or embellishments, as they can add volume to your frame.

4. Draping the saree correctly also plays a big role, Make sure the saree is tucked in properly and pinned at the right place to create a sleek and streamlined look.

5. Wear the saree with a fitted blouse and avoid oversized or bulky blouses.

6. High heels also help to elongate the legs and give the illusion of a slimmer frame.

Ultimately, confidence is key when it comes to wearing a saree and looking good. If you feel good in what you're wearing, it will show in your appearance.