Banarasi Silk Sarees
Sundari Sarees Banarasi Sarees: 45 Years of Timeless Elegance
Since its inception almost 45 years ago, Sundari Sarees, the iconic ethnic wear destination for women, has been a cherished name in premium occasion wear rooted in Indian tradition. From bridal sarees to daily wear drapes, Sundari Sarees is known for offering a wide array of authentic weaves sourced directly from skilled artisans. Upholding a legacy of quality, craftsmanship, and trust, Sundari Sarees proudly presents its signature collection of Banarasi Sarees—a timeless expression of Indian artistry and heritage.
Banarasi sarees are more than just traditional attire—they are woven stories of opulence and cultural legacy. Originating from the ancient city of Varanasi (Banaras), these sarees are celebrated for their luxurious silk fabric, intricate zari work, and exquisite motifs. Whether for weddings, festivals, or grand celebrations, Banarasi sarees are a quintessential choice for Indian women who want to make an unforgettable statement.
History of Banarasi Sarees
The origin of Banarasi sarees dates back to the Mughal era, where Persian aesthetics fused with Indian weaving traditions. Under royal patronage, Banaras emerged as the hub of silk weaving, with artisans crafting masterpieces using gold and silver threads. Over centuries, this intricate art has been passed down through generations, sustaining its relevance and admiration.
Types of Banarasi Sarees
Each Banarasi saree is a testament to the skill of weavers and the diversity of Indian textiles. At Sundari Sarees, you will find a range of Banarasi sarees crafted in various luxurious fabrics:
- Banarasi Katan Silk
Made from pure silk threads, Katan silk sarees are known for their lustrous texture and strength. Rich in zari work and traditional motifs like floral butas and paisleys, these sarees are a staple in bridal collections.
- Banarasi Georgette Sarees
Lightweight and flowy, Banarasi georgette sarees are ideal for semi-formal and festive occasions. The fine weave allows for detailed embroidery and sequin embellishments.
- Banarasi Cotton Sarees
A blend of comfort and tradition, Banarasi cotton sarees are perfect for summer festivities. These sarees are breathable yet elegant, making them suitable for day functions and office wear.
- Banarasi Satin Sarees
Luxuriously smooth and slightly glossy, Banarasi satin sarees add a regal touch to evening events. The fabric drapes beautifully and enhances the intricacy of woven patterns.
- Banarasi Munga Tussar Sarees
Munga (or Muga) Tussar silk, known for its natural golden sheen, is combined with Banarasi weaving to create sarees that are earthy and elegant. These are perfect for traditional functions with a rustic charm.
- Banarasi Organza Sarees
Sheer and ethereal, Banarasi organza sarees are lightweight yet rich in craftsmanship. These sarees are a favorite among younger brides and women who love understated elegance.
Artistry and Weaving Techniques in Banarasi Sarees
The brilliance of Banarasi sarees lies in the intricate craftsmanship behind each piece. Master artisans use traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations to create detailed motifs and textures.
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Kadwa Weave: One of the most labor-intensive methods, where motifs are woven separately and not embroidered, giving a rich and refined finish.
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Cutwork Weave: A faster and slightly simplified weaving style where extra threads are cut off after weaving. It is popular for semi-formal wear.
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Tanchoi Weave: Features intricate designs often woven with colorful weft silk threads. These sarees often have a satin finish and are free of zari.
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Jangla Weave: Known for elaborate patterns of flora and fauna across the saree. The designs are vivid and often stretch across the length.
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Tissue Weave: Incorporates zari threads with silk to create a shimmering texture, perfect for special occasions.
How to Identify Genuine Banarasi Sarees
Recognizing an authentic Banarasi saree is essential to ensure you’re investing in the real artistry and not a synthetic imitation. Here are key indicators to identify a genuine Banarasi saree:
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Weaving Pattern: Flip the saree and observe the reverse side. A real Banarasi will have float threads on the backside due to hand-weaving, unlike machine-made sarees which are uniform and neat on both sides.
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Intricate Motifs: Traditional motifs like floral jaal, mango buta, bel, and kalga-paisley are signs of a classic Banarasi. The detailing should be fine and precise.
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Zari Work: Authentic Banarasi sarees use zari made from real gold or silver threads (or at least tested metallic yarns), which lend a rich and slightly heavy feel. Look for a hallmark or ask for zari test reports when purchasing.
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GI Tag: Genuine Banarasi sarees carry a Government of India Geographical Indication (GI) tag, certifying that the saree is handwoven in Varanasi.
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Hand Feel and Weight: Real Banarasi silk feels soft but has a certain weight because of the silk and zari. Imitations often feel overly stiff or too light.
How to Care for Your Banarasi Saree
Banarasi sarees are timeless treasures and need proper care to maintain their beauty and durability. Always dry clean your Banarasi saree to preserve its silk texture and zari work. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight for long hours, as it may cause the color to fade. Store your saree in a muslin cloth and keep it folded with the zari inside out to avoid tarnishing. Air it every few months to prevent any musty odor.
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