Banaras, as we all know, has been India’s one of the most sacred cities of India and a pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. There is no doubt that Banaras is an epicentre of various art, music, religion, philosophy and more. But in this blog, Kala Kashi will take you across the most beautiful gift Banaras has given us- Banarasi silk and Banarasi Sarees.

Today India’s women are entirely channelising their style by wearing Banarasi Sarees at weddings, festivities, and other celebrations. Because of their rich and timeless look, Banarasi Sarees are known to be passed down to generations. No matter how many sustainable and affordable fabrics come to the market, Banarasi Silk Saree will always remain in demand. So, let’s look at the history of Banarasi silk, Banarsi fabric, from the eyes of Kala Kashi.

Making Of Banarasi Silk Fabric

Banarasi silk and weaving techniques of Kashi have been praised by Buddhist monks and mentioned in Ramayana and Mahabharata books. The Rig Veda has the earliest recorded mention of weaving in Banaras. The Vedic book, which dates from 1500 BC to 500 BC, refers to weavers as Tantuvayas who produce various forms of clothing. Also, excellent cotton-growing districts existed around Banaras. Pali literature claims that this majestic city was a renowned hub for creating textiles, known for its Kasikuttama and Kasiya. This way, Banarasi fabric dominated the royalties in India and worldwide. 

And when we say a person has an eye for unique things, they take a fancy towards it. Just like it, Banarasi silk clothes were first recognised by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The peak of Banarasi fabric made the weavers from Banaras make their presence in the 14th century. Its lustrous texture and shine made him fancy Banarasi silk fabric, and new techniques and development were made to create clothes for Mughal Royalties by using gold and silver zari threads.

Modern Banarasi Silks In Traditional And Unconventional Patterns

The finest silk, zari thread, and silver and gold alloys were used to weave the Benarasi silk fabric in the past. The knowledge of master weavers is now sought after by designers and companies, who then create glittering Banarasi silks in conventional and non-conventional designs and colour schemes. Moreover, gold and silver colour threads are used in place of genuine metals to lower the price and make it more affordable. Despite several challenges, Banaras’s weaving industry has persevered and remained the centre of weaving traditions in the nation that produces the majority of the world’s handloom goods. Banarasi Saree is the item made of Banarasi silk that sells the most. From Indian brides to middle-aged women, everyone has at least 2-3 in their collection. 

Mughal and Hindu typically influence the distinctive features of Banarasi Sarees, or Banarasi fabrics inspired designs, such as intricate interwoven floral and foliate motifs, kalga and bel, brocades, and a string of upright leaves known as jhallar at the outside edge of the border. Additional characteristics include gold, intricate weaving, living things figurines with fine details, metal-shaded effects, Jal (a design resembling a net), and the most beautiful Meena work. The most recent Banarasi saree trends from Kala Kashi feature brocade and traditional work in a spectrum of vibrant and festive colours with unseen and unique patterns. Kala Kashi has categorised the collection into four ( Pratibimb, Aadarshini, Zahira, and Tahlia) to rejuvenate the old traditions and cultures and to inspire the natural beauty in Indian women. 

Recognising The Talent Who Brought The Idea Of Luxury To Life

This entire process of using silk thread to create beautiful and royal garments was possible only because of the hard-working weavers of Banaras. In ancient times, from Ansaris to Bunkaar, each group had its own speciality and production techniques. Besides, from pre-deciding the pattern, colour scheme, sketch, and silk power ring, every process has been beautifully done by these Karigars. Their idea is to carry the culture and traditions forward today and forever.