From Varanasi to the World: The Timeless Charm of the Banarasi Saree

I, Varanasi, the city of eternal spirit, located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in northern India, have a story to share that will take you to a world of rich culture and timeless beauty. It’s the tale of the Banarasi saree, a garment interwoven with Indian tradition and heritage for centuries.

In Bengal, a region in eastern India, during the grand celebration of Durga Puja, one of the most important festivals in the region, the air hums with the scent of flowers and the rhythm of drums. The air is filled with the scent of marigolds and incense, drums and chants echo in the atmosphere, and women, draped in shimmering Banarasi sarees, move gracefully in celebration. The golden threads of the sarees catch the sunlight, adding to the festive vibrance. This is the essence of the Banarasi saree, which has long been cherished in weddings and festivals and admired for its intricate weaving and rich fabric.

The Banarasi saree is more than just a piece of clothing – it’s a symbol of tradition, grace, and beauty. Brides wear them on their special day, feeling like queens in their golden finery.

But the Banarasi saree’s allure isn’t limited to India. Designers from across the world, mesmerized by the intricate designs and opulent fabrics, started importing them in heavy numbers. They were influenced by the Indian tradition of weaving stories into fabric, and the Banarasi saree became a sensation on international runways.

Varanasi is home to several types of Banarasi works, including:

• Kimkhab: A luxurious fabric featuring intricate gold and silver threadwork.
• Shattir: A delicate fabric adorned with intricate floral patterns.
• Tanchoi: A fabric featuring delicate paisley designs.
• Jangla: A fabric featuring intricate jungle-inspired designs.
• Butidar: A fabric featuring intricate floral and foliate designs.
• Zar Baft: A fabric featuring intricate gold threadwork, often used in Kimkhab sarees.
• Kimbhav: A fabric featuring intricate silver threadwork, often used in Shattir sarees.
• Meenakari: A fabric featuring intricate enamel work, often used in Tanchoi sarees.
• Kamdani: A fabric featuring intricate embroidery work, often used in Jangla sarees.

Today, the Banarasi saree is a global phenomenon, with designers incorporating its timeless elegance into their collections. From:

• Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s “Kashgaar Bazaar” collection, featuring stunning Banarasi sarees with intricate embroidery.
• Tarun Tahiliani’s “The Varanasi Collection”, showcasing modern interpretations of traditional Banarasi sarees.
• Alexander McQueen’s “Plato’s Atlantis” collection, featuring Banarasi-inspired designs with intricate gold thread work.
• Dior’s “Pre-Fall 2018” collection, featuring Banarasi silk in modern, contemporary designs.
• JJ Valaya’s “The Maharaja Collection”, featuring opulent Banarasi sarees with intricate craftsmanship.
• Rohit Bal’s “The Banarasi Collection”, showcasing the elegance and grandeur of traditional Banarasi sarees.
• Oscar de la Renta’s “Spring 2019” collection, featuring Banarasi-inspired designs with vibrant colors and intricate patterns.

As the golden threads of the Banarasi saree continue to weave their magic, we are reminded of the power of tradition, culture, and artistry. This garment has transcended borders, generations, and trends, becoming an iconic symbol of Indian heritage. As Varanasi, I stand proud, knowing that my ancient streets have been the birthplace of this magnificent craft.

Today I look to the future, I am aware that the world is changing rapidly. New trends and technologies are emerging, and the fabric of our society is evolving. But amidst all this change, I am certain that the Banarasi saree will remain a constant, a beacon of elegance and sophistication that will continue to captivate the hearts of women around the world.

I, Varanasi, am waiting for the many changes that are to come, but I am confident that the Banarasi saree will rule the hearts of women through eternity. Its timeless beauty, intricate craftsmanship, and rich cultural heritage will ensure that it remains an integral part of our collective identity, a symbol of our shared history and tradition.

–Surangama Guha is a homemaker, ex-teacher, and former administrator of a reputed school. She is also a dancer with a passion for music. She believes in herself, takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart.