Banarasi

Banarasi weaving originates from the vibrant city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, Banarasi sarees and stoles are considered among the finest in the country, characterized by their intricate gold or silver brocade, known as zari, fine silk, and opulent embroidery. These sarees are meticulously woven from fine silk and adorned with intricate designs, making them a symbol of luxury and elegance, albeit slightly heavier due to their elaborate detailing.

History

We take immense pride in honoring the rich history and origins of Banarasi textiles, a legacy that traces its roots back centuries to the ancient city of Varanasi, India. Renowned for their luxurious silk and intricate designs, Banarasi fabrics have graced royalty and dignitaries for generations, embodying elegance and cultural heritage. The meticulous weaving techniques utilized in Banarasi textiles, such as the kadwa and tanchoi weaves, showcase the extraordinary skill and artistry of local artisans. Banarasi sarees were cherished by Indian royalty and held in high esteem as prestigious gifts.

Each Banarasi garment is a testament to the enduring tradition of craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. By incorporating Banarasi fabrics into our sustainable collections, we not only preserve this esteemed legacy but also champion ethical practices and uplift local communities. We celebrate the timeless beauty and cultural significance of Banarasi textiles, where each garment tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainable elegance.

Different Weaves

Banarasi textiles are renowned for their array of weaving techniques, each possessing its own distinctive allure and complexity. One such technique, the kadwa weave, stands out with its intricate patterns and lavish designs. Utilizing metallic threads intricately woven into the fabric, this technique produces a luxurious tapestry of motifs that gleam in the light. In contrast, the tanchoi weave embraces a more delicate and nuanced approach, featuring ethereal floating designs and gentle textures that exude an understated elegance. Another noteworthy technique, the jangla weave, showcases elaborate mesh-like patterns, lending depth and dimension to the fabric. Through these diverse weaving methods, Banarasi textiles showcase the remarkable skill and artistry of the craftsmen, preserving a centuries-old tradition of beauty and craftsmanship.

Kadwa

Tanchoi

Jangla

Process

1. Silk Thread Sourcing

High-quality silk fibers are procurred from trusted suppliers. The raw silk is then spun into fine threads, ensuring the strength and luster required for weaving intricate Banarasi patterns.

2. Design Preparation

Designers craft detailed sketches inspired by traditional motifs, serving as blueprints for weaving.

3. Dyeing

Premium silk or cotton yarn is selected and prepared, undergoing dyeing or bleaching to achieve the desired color and texture.

4. Card Punching

Artisans punch holes into rectangular cardboard pieces based on the design blueprint. These cards regulate the loom's threads, ensuring precise replication of intricate patterns and designs in the fabric.

5. Weaving

Using jacquard looms, artisans weave intricate patterns with techniques like Kadhua, Phekua, Katarwan, or Tanchoi, requiring exceptional precision.

6. Cutting and Stitching

This process involves precisely measuring and cutting the fabric to match the garment design. Tailors then sew the pieces together, carefully maintaining the alignment of the intricate patterns to create a cohesive and elegant final product.

7. Washing

The fabric is gently cleaned by hand using mild detergent and cold water to preserve the its delicate texture and intricate patterns. The garment is then carefully rinsed and laid flat to air dry, preventing any distortion or damage to the elaborate designs.

8. Finishing and Packaging

Finishing a woven Banarasi garment involves ironing to remove wrinkles, inspecting for quality, and carefully packaging to ensure it remains pristine during transport and storage.

Sustainability

Sustainability improvements in Banarasi textiles are crucial for safeguarding this cherished tradition while mitigating its environmental impact and advocating ethical practices. Transitioning to organic silk or cotton yarns and using natural dyes derived from plants can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of Banarasi textiles. Organic materials, cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, are not only safer for the environment but also promote the well-being of artisans and consumers.

Implementing water-saving technologies and practices during the dyeing and finishing processes can minimize water consumption and pollution. Waste reduction strategies such as reusing fabric scraps, recycling packaging materials, and adopting closed-loop production systems can effectively minimize waste generation and foster circularity in the supply chain.

Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and equitable opportunities for artisans are integral aspects of sustainable Banarasi textile production. Supporting fair trade organizations and certifications helps ensure that artisans receive fair compensation for their work and that social and environmental standards are upheld throughout the supply chain.