Banarsi

Banaras, or Varanasi, holy city of temples, where, by the taking of a dip in the Ganges river, Hindus believe one gets closer to salvation, one also gets to see a grand offering – the Banarasi saree. Not withstanding a flurry of traditional silks across the country, the Banarasi Saree has always held out as a unique fabric of traditional excellence. The speciality of the Banarasi sari lies in its use of zari or rich gold and silver coloured thread work on motifs and brocades. The influence of Mughal designs is evident from the awesome floral and leafy motifs known as ‘kalga’ and ‘bel’ and outer border designs of upright leaves known as ‘Jhallar’.