Banarasi sarees are considered a timeless classic for several reasons. These sarees are hand-woven in Varanasi, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, and are known for their intricate designs, fine silk fabric, and rich embroidery.
Here are some reasons why Banarasi Silk sarees are considered a timeless classic:
The rich history and cultural significance
Pure Banarasi sarees have a rich history that dates back to the Mughal era. These sarees were patronised by the royal families and were considered a symbol of wealth and status. Today, Banarasi sarees continue to be a part of the cultural heritage of India and are often worn during weddings, festivals, and other important occasions.
Exquisite craftsmanship
Pure Banarasi sarees are hand-woven by skilled artisans who use traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation. The weaving process is time-consuming and requires a lot of patience and skill. The sarees are woven using fine silk threads and are often adorned with intricate designs, such as floral motifs, paisleys, and geometric patterns. The embroidery work on these sarees is also done by hand and can take several days to complete.
Versatility
Banarasi sarees are versatile and can be worn on different occasions. They come in various colours and designs, from subtle pastel shades to bold and bright hues. The sarees can be paired with jewellery and accessories to create various looks.
Timeless appeal
Banarasi sarees have a timeless appeal that transcends fashion trends. They are elegant and sophisticated and exude a sense of tradition and heritage. The sarees have been worn by generations of Indian women and continue to be a popular choice for brides and other women on special occasions.
Besides being an essential part of Indian culture, Banarasi silk sarees have significantly impacted the global fashion scene. They have been showcased in international fashion shows and worn by celebrities, which has helped promote Indian handloom and handicrafts.
Moreover, the Banarasi silk saree is not just a piece of clothing but an art form. The intricate designs and weaving techniques used in creating these sarees make them unique and valuable art pieces. The use of pure silk and zari threads in the weaving process gives the sarees a luxurious and regal look, making them a popular choice for weddings and other grand events.
The Banarasi saree has also been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Indian government, which ensures that only sarees made in Varanasi can be sold under the Banarasi label. This has helped in protecting the authenticity and quality of the sarees and has also provided employment opportunities for weavers in the region.
One of the significant aspects of Banarasi sarees is the different types of designs and patterns used in the weaving process. Some of the popular designs include the Butidar, Jangla, and Tanchoi. The Butidar design consists of small floral or paisley motifs woven into the saree’s body and is considered one of the most popular designs. The Jangla design, on the other hand, features intricate floral and animal motifs, and the Tanchoi design includes small checks or squares with floral designs.
Another important aspect of Banarasi sarees is the zari work. Zari is a fine metallic silver or gold thread used to create intricate patterns and designs on the saree. Using zari in the weaving process adds to the saree’s richness and luxury, making it a popular choice for bridal wear.
In recent years, Banarasi sarees have transformed to cater to modern tastes and preferences. Designers have started experimenting with different fabrics, colours, and patterns to create contemporary versions of the traditional saree. Some of the popular innovations include the use of pastel shades, fusion designs, and digital prints.
Conclusion
Banarasi sarees are not just a piece of clothing but a symbol of Indian heritage and culture. They are a timeless classic passed down from generation to generation and are a popular choice for special occasions. The exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs make them unique and valuable art pieces. With the changing times, banarasi sarees are available online and have evolved to cater to modern tastes while maintaining their traditional charm. The Banarasi saree perfectly represents India’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-have in every Indian bride’s trousseau. One can now get the best Banarasi saree online with many saree shopping apps and websites like Taneira.
