10 DIFFERENT TYPES OF BANARASI SILK SAREES TO BUY

Banarasi silk sarees commonly thought to be a plain old banarasi saree with a silk border, but did you know that there are various other varieties of banarasi sarees and dupattas to pick from?

A Banarasi sari is made in Varanasi, commonly known as Benares, a historic city (Banaras). 

The saris are famed for their gold and silver brocade or zari, quality silk, and lavish embroidery and are among the finest sarees of India. 

Banarasi sarees have long been a feature of wardrobes of Indian women, reigning supreme from legendary times to the present day. Banarasi silk sarees have been blooming for generations, and the trend has now extended to Banarasi dupattas.

Choose the best banarasi silk saree from this list of different types of banarasi silk saree from Chinaya Banaras for your big day, festival, or any gathering.

Different Types of Banarasi Silk Sarees

Banarasi sarees first emerged during the Mughal Empire, when Muslim artists and weavers chose Banaras as the location that best suited their culture and began weaving silk Banarasi sarees.

There are several different varieties of Banarasi Sarees that a modern Indian woman can choose from. The silk saree is not the only type of Banarasi saree available.

This categorization not only separates the Banarasis into distinct sorts, but it also makes it easier to organize the options by occasion, functionality, and, of course, style.

As a result of the fabric employed, four unique categories of sarees have emerged: Katan, Shattir, Organza (Kora), and Georgette.

Furthermore, the classification is expressed in kinds such as Jangla, Tanchoi, Cutwork, Tissue, and Butidar based on design.

  1. Katan Silk Banarasi Sarees
 Yellow Handwoven Banarasi Silk Blouse By Chinaya Banaras

Katan is a plain fabric made of pure silk threads that are twisted and then woven together precisely to create enduring sarees.

Katan Silk is used to weave the majority of the luxurious Banarasi silk sarees as is both sturdy and shiny, making it ideal for a fabric used to weave a celebratory wear saree.

  1. Shattir Silk Sarees

The varieties of Shattir Banarasi sarees, which are comparatively lighter and less sophisticated than the Katan ones, may help to integrate Banarasi sarees into mainstream everyday modern fashion. 

Shattirs, the fabric used to create contemporary designs on these sarees, are also inexpensive, making them more accessible to everyone.

  1. Organza (Kora) Silk Sarees
Women In Lavender Handloom Organza Silk Saree By Chinaya Banaras

Organza Silk sarees are traditionally constructed from yarn and are created by tightly twisting different threads and then weaving them together to give the firm structure and gloss.

This variation stands out for the richness of the aesthetic as well as the significant influence of the material, which features rich zari work in prominent tones of gold and silver.

The banarasi sarees with rich embroidery in organza fabric with zari and silk are smooth, silky, and shiny, making them an ideal choice for stealing away the show!

  1. Georgette Banarasi sarees
Model wearing a red and orange woven georgette silk saree with intricate patterns, available at Chinaya Banaras 

Georgette is a fabric constructed from finely twisted yarns that were originally made from silk. It is one of the lightest fabrics and is weaved into stunning Banarasi georgette sarees with a particular flair.

The silky georgette fabric, made of crepe yarn, makes these banarasi sarees a thrill to drape with their contemporary and luscious yet comfortable appeal.

  1. Jangla Banarasi Sarees
Floral Jaal Handwoven Banarasi Silk Saree - Chinaya Banaras

The name of Jangla Banarasi saree is inspired by ‘Jungle’ and the motifs of vegetation that are usually found across the saree.

The dense zari work on a Jangla saree is set apart by its exquisite weaving of motifs and patterns. Prints of hunting scenes, animals, birds, and human figures are also present, capturing the essence of ancient activities.

Jangla banarasi silk sarees, with their highly intricately woven border and hem, are great for making eccentric statements at weddings that are high on the exotic quotient as well as the grandeur.

  1. Tanchoi Banarasi saree

Tanchoi weaving is a complicated and sophisticated technique that uses a handful of twists and two to five weft colors. These sarees are remarkably light and easy to wrap. 

These Banarasi sarees often feature intricately woven Jamawar style paisleys that often elaborate into a maze. The aesthetic achieved by the jamawar weaved into the fabric is of a silky etched finish, which is more glamorous and has the perfect appearance.

  1. Tissue Silk Saree

Tissue Silk Sarees have the most delicate appearance and craftsmanship of all of them. These are intricately woven tissue saree with a golden zari weft that gives them a rich lustrous texture.

Tissue banarasi, often known as the golden fabric because of its profuse gold zari weaving, is an excellent choice for any wedding or festival. These sarees have a particularly exuberant appeal to them due to their brilliance and sheen.

  1. Cutwork Banarasi saree
    Grey Tissue Silk Saree at Chinaya Banaras

Cutwork embroidery is well-known for its magnificence. Cutwork techniques used on Banarasi sarees enhance their beauty. The intricacy and astute simplicity of cutwork sarees take the love of all.

 Jasmine, marigold flowers, creepers, and leaves are among the most common motifs in cutwork sarees. These cutwork banarasi sarees make for the perfect everyday wear as it is one of the most inexpensive sarees of all.

  1. Butidar Banarasi saree
    Rose Pink Handwoven Banarasi Katan Silk Saree - Chinaya Banaras

Butidar sarees have the Buta or Buti all over them. It is a result of the Karhwa/Fekua weaving technique. 

Straight ‘butis’, half-drop ‘butis’, and a variety of different designs can be found on a Butidar Banarasi silk saree.

The butidar sarees are heavily woven Banarasi sarees with gold, silver, and silk brocades running through them. Angoor Bail, Gojar Bail, Luttar Bail, Khulta Bail, Baluchar Bail, Mehrab Bail, and many more are among the many traditional patterns and motifs that make up this luxuriant work of art. 

  1.  Jamdani Sarees
    Blue Woven Chanderi Silk Saree By Chinaya Banaras

The word ‘Jamdani’ comes from Persian roots, where ‘Jam’ means flower and ‘Dani’ means vase. It runs counter to a saree with a lot of floral artwork on it, as seen on Jamdani sarees.

Jamdani Banarasis, formerly known as Dhakai Sarees, are a unique type of silk brocaded with cotton and, on rare occasions, zari threads.

It’s a hand-loomed fabric composed of high-quality cotton with only classic floral designs delicately woven on it.

These are the most basic types of Banarasi sarees that you can wear with pride. Before you relinquish Banarasi sarees entirely, explore these versions to see which one best suits you. Check out the authentic collection of various types of Banarasi silk sarees at Chinaya Banaras.

FAQ 1: What are the different types of Banarasi Sarees based on fabric?

Banarasi Sarees are one of those categories of sarees that have never lost their popularity and fame among fashion women over the centuries. And one of the reasons for that can be the versatility of fabric on which Banarasi intricate weaving can be done. Banarasi sarees can be crafted on a spectrum of fabrics. 

Like the most well-known - 

Katan Silk - Made by twisting filaments of pure silks together, which results in fabric having a sheen, soft, and durable nature, Katan Silk Banarasi Sarees are most popular for their luxurious feel.

Shattir - Shattir is known for its brocade-like effect, it is a type of silk fabric with shimmering, made by weaving different kinds of silk threads together. Shattir Banarasi Sarees are quite popular for their rich look.

Organza(Kora) - Organza Silk which is also known as Kora, is a type of fabric that is widely known for its lightweight, translucent, & sheer texture. Among fashion women who love to drape a blend of modern style and traditional weaving motifs, Organza Banarasi sarees count as their first choice. It is often used for sarees that are draped in a flowing style. Kora Banarasi Sarees are perfect for summer special occasions, they can keep you sweat-less all day.

Georgette: Known for its soft, crinkled texture, Georgette is a fabric similar to a lightweight crepe. This makes Banarasi sarees made from georgette incredibly comfortable to wear compared to sarees made from other fabrics. Unlike some heavier Banarasi varieties, their ease of draping allows them to be worn for everyday occasions, not just special events.

There are many other types of fabrics except those used for Banarasi intricate weaving like Linen, Chiffon, Tissue, Jamdani, etc. This versatility of fabrics that can be used for Banarasi Sarees, makes it live in fashion for women over the centuries.

FAQ 2: What are some popular design styles for Banarasi Sarees?

Not only in the fabric, Banarasi Saree design styles are also one of the major reasons why it maintained its legacy over the years among women, There are many different kinds of design styles Banarasi weaves follows, but the most popular and major 5 are:

Jangla: Jangla is one of the most famous design styles of Banarasi Sarees. The word “Jangla” is a word that has a corresponding meaning of “The Jungle”. It is inspired by the Jungle vegetation representing the wildlife through motifs and patterns which include animals, trees, birds, and hunting scenes. It is also known as “Katan Jal Set” because of its dense and delicate weaving all over the saree in the form of Jaals woven using colorful threads. This kind of heavy weaving on the fabrics makes Jangla Banarasi Sarees very popular among women.

Kalga & Bel: Kalga and bel are one of the ancient or can be said first made weaving techniques that were used for the Banarasi Sarees. It is a string of leaves and floral motifs weaved with a string of leaves known as jhallar at the outer of the saree. 

Butidar motifs: Butidar motifs are design styles that are directly inspired by Mughal design patterns. If the floral motifs are in the form of small flowers spread across the surface, the saree will be called a Butidar saree. This repetitive pattern of design makes this saree so classical to wear, making it a choice among women for festivals.

Tanchoi: Rather than a design style, Tanchoi more is likely to be known as a weaving style, which comes in a variety of forms, and features Chinese-influenced motifs of flowers, landscapes, or birds. The basic Tanchoi is satin silk weaves with a spectrum of color weft threads that are used to create patterns and resemble embroidery. The Banarasi Tanchoi patterns generally have an integration of zari and much more border floral motifs and large buta motifs making it popular among customers as a variant of prized silk textiles of Banarasi Sarees.   

FAQ 3: What kind of occasion is each type of Banarasi saree best suited for?

Their versatility in fabric and styles is what makes Banarasi sarees timeless beauty! Regardless of the occasion, there is always a kind that will suit you perfectly. Let’s have a look at it!!

Formal Occasions & Weddings : 

Katan Silks: Known for its vibrant colors and luxurious feel, Katan is perfect for grand weddings, receptions, or formal evening events.

Tanchoi: These boast intricate brocade work and rich colors, making them ideal for weddings or grand festivals.

Organza: Organza Banarasi sarees add a touch of glamour with their sheer fabric and zari work. They can be great for pre-wedding festivities or cocktail receptions.

Special Occasions & Lighter Events:

Georgette: With a lightweight and flowy feel, Georgette Banarasi sarees are perfect for daytime weddings, engagements, or special dinners.

Tussar Silk: These sarees offer a beautiful golden hue and elegant designs, suitable for pujas, religious ceremonies, or festive gatherings.

Modern Takes:

Cutwork: These sarees feature intricate cutouts and delicate embroidery, perfect for a fusion look at a festive event or a social gathering.

Jangla: Featuring floral motifs, Jangla sarees add a touch of youthful elegance, ideal for festive occasions or even a celebratory lunch.

 

FAQ 4: What are some traditional motifs featured on Banarasi Sarees?

Banarasi sarees are well known for their excellent designs and intricate motifs. But as you know the versatility of designs and traditional motifs makes Banarasi sarees never go out of fashion. Well if you look for it, the most demanded traditional motifs among fashion women are.  

Floral Motifs: These are some of the most popular and beloved designs. The "bel buti" motif features a recurring pattern of flowers, while the "floral jaal" is a more elaborate all-over floral design.

Paisley (Boota): This ubiquitous teardrop-shaped motif is a classic element in Banarasi sarees. It's believed to symbolize fertility and prosperity.

Shikargah Motifs: These depict hunting scenes, featuring animals, nature elements, and sometimes even human figures. They are believed to have originated in Persia and showcase the grandeur of the Mughal era.

Geometric Motifs: These intricate patterns add a touch of regality and precision to the sarees. They are often used in combination with other motifs.

Animal Motifs: Elephants symbolize strength and good luck, while peacocks represent beauty, grace, and divinity. Other animals like parrots are also depicted, signifying love and communication.

Kalash Motif: This pot with a coconut on top is a symbol of abundance and auspiciousness. It's a popular motif for sarees meant for special occasions.

FAQ 5: Why does the price range differ between the various types of Banarasi Saree?

Thinking of a Banarasi saree, its price ranges on many things. The quality of materials (pure silks, paints, canvas), the artist's skill, the intricacy of the design, and the artist's reputation and branding costs, all contribute to the final value of it. If we look at the breakdown of all that it can be figured out easily.

Material: Pure silk, like Katan, is the most expensive material used. Silk blends and art silk sarees are significantly cheaper.

Weaving Technique & Complexity: Intricate hand-woven designs with elaborate patterns like Jangla or Tanchoi take much longer to create and command a premium price. Simpler woven patterns are less expensive.

Zari Work: Zari, the metallic thread often woven into the saree, significantly increases the cost. The amount of zari work, the type of metal used (gold or silver), and the intricacy of the design all influence the price.

Craftsmanship: Hand-woven sarees by skilled artisans are more expensive than machine-made ones. The time and expertise involved in creating a piece of art directly reflect in the price.

Brand & Seller Reputation: Established brands with a reputation for high-quality, authentic Banarasi sarees may charge more than smaller vendors.

 

FAQ 6: What are some tips for caring for a Banarasi Silk Saree?

As you know Banarasi Sarees can be high in price and made out of generally pure silks that are as equal as hard to maintain as it is hard to make. Caring for your Banarasi Silks becomes important for you so that you can utilize its total worth. Here are some tips to care for your precious Banarasi silk saree and ensure it stays beautiful for years to come:

Dry Cleaning is Key: Always prefer proper dry cleaning for Banarasi sarees whenever your saree needs cleaning. Avoid washing your Banarasi saree at home. The fragile silk threads and intricate work can be damaged.

Store it the right way: Direct sunlight and exposure to regular humidity can make the saree fade its color over time. Always store your Banarasi saree in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Use cloth bags: Also, exposure to moisture and humidity can lead the saree to mildew. So, use any breathable cloth bag like muslin and cotton to store your Banarasi Saree and avoid plastic bags.

Away from perfumes: Be careful with perfumes, deodorant, and strong chemicals around your Banarasi saree! They can stain the pretty colors and damage the delicate fabric.

Ironing with Caution: Use low to medium heat while ironing, always iron silk on the reverse side.

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