Six Yards of Banarasi Grace By Saqlain Akhtar
Our team of Khojees explored the nooks and crannies as well as the heart of Banaras, and we came across resplendent a collection of hand-woven Banarasi sarees that personify elegance and showcase an old world charm! We all know that wearing a Banarasi saree is like making a statement on its own. It reflects heritage and sometimes affluence. But more than anything a Banarasi Saree is a mark of a woman who bets on tradition
Banaras is the main powerhouse of Banarasi sarees. Their special characteristics are Mughal inspired designs such as intricate entwining floral and foliate motifs, kalga and bel, a string of upright leaves called jhallar on the outer edge of border, usually golden, which are a characteristic of these sarees. Banarasi sarees are among the finest sarees in India and are known for their gold and silver brocade or zari work on fine silk along with opulent embroidery. These sarees are made of finely woven silk and are decorated with intricate designs, and because of these engravings, these sarees are relatively heavy yet ethereal.
FACT : Depending upon the intricacy of its designs and patterns, a saree can take from fifteen days to a month and sometimes up to six months to complete!
Initially, making sarees was a handloom craft and took almost a month to weave a saree but now it’s much easier and cost effective as the weaving is done on power looms. Power looms producing more quantity in a single day as compared to handlooms and help the weavers be efficient!
Khoj supports the weaves of Banaras, the hands that create them, and aims to keep the old-world charm alive!