EXPERT TIPS TO IDENTIFY A PURE BANARASI SILK SAREE
Sarees have long been an integral part of Indian fashion. Modernity has brought about a lot of changes in clothing. But sarees, particularly banarasi sarees, have never lost their prominence. Authentic Banarasi sarees are handwoven from the finest silk yarn with meticulous attention to detail by skilled artisan weavers.
Since the Mughal era, Banarasi saris have been a source of pride for every Indian woman. Banarasi sarees are also a huge part of India’s rich traditional culture. However, this market has recently been robbed of its fair share!
In recent years, cheap Chinese imitations of Banarasi sarees have entered the Indian markets.
This, along with the power loom sarees has reduced the market share of Indian artisans in Varanasi. Varanasi, a timeless city in Uttar Pradesh is considered the heartland of Banarasi saree weaving.
Learn how to identify a pure banarasi silk saree and how to differentiate banarasi silk saree. Also, get to know how to check if a banarasi saree is real or fake when you shop for this festival or wedding season. Reading further will help you ensure that you are able to identify original banarasi sarees.
Ways to identify pure banarasi silk saree when buying from a shop
When looking for the best Banarasi silk saree for a wedding or festival, people typically prefer to go to the store in person because it is an experience in itself.
It is easier to distinguish the difference between an authentic banarasi silk saree and its fake imitation when you touch and feel its texture.
When buying a banarasi saree from a shop in person, there are certain ways to check for an authentic banarasi silk saree.
Check the reverse side of the saree
You may determine its genuineness by simply looking at the saree’s reverse side. Loom-woven Banarasi sarees will always have floats inside the warp and weft grids. But machine-woven sarees will have a smooth finish.
Look for pin markings
Another technique to tell if a saree is an authentic Banarasi is to look for pin markings. These are commonly located on the saree’s selvage and are used to secure the saree to the loom.
Insist on a certificate
The Certificate of Authorized Use of the Silk Mart Logo is another important thing to look for while purchasing pure silk Sarees. If you’re buying a genuine silk saree, always demand a certificate.
While these approaches can be solely used while shopping from a store, other tactics will help you identify an original pure banarasi saree when shopping online.
Ways to buy the best banarasi sarees online from any website
When purchasing online, one has to rely on the online images and the description of the products on the website to distinguish between a pure banarasi silk saree and a fake imitation. These images often trick a gullible customer into believing an inferior quality saree to be an authentic banarasi saree.
To ensure that you only buy genuine, heirloom-quality Banarasi sarees, use this expert checklist from Chinaya Banaras:
Price Range
Due to the use of high-quality silk and zari threads made from gold and silver alloys, pure Banarasi Silk sarees are relatively expensive.
Handloom Weaving is a time-consuming procedure that might take weeks or even months. Original Banarasi sarees are expensive due to these features.
A bona fide quality banarasi silk saree will most likely cost between Rs 8,000 and Rs 3,00,000. While a fake banarasi saree could cost as little as Rs 2500.
Check out Chinaya Banaras’ authentic selection of pure banarasi silk sarees, which are of the highest quality and are also reasonably priced!
A patch of plain silk
Look for a lengthy area of six to eight inches of plain silk on the pallu in the close-up shot of the available online images. This section should be easy to recognize because it passes over the shoulder.
Presence of Mughal patterns
A pure banarasi silk saree will mostly feature Mughal-inspired weaved motifs like the Amru, Ambi, and Domak. It may also include intricate zari floral and foliage themes such as kalga and bel.
These patterns signify the finesse of the craftsmanship of the weavers and are hard to find on duplicate sarees.
The Geographical Indication
Every pure silk Banarasi saree has its own G.I. mark (Geographical Indication). This is an Intellectual Property right granted by the Indian government to weavers to distinguish a Banarasi saree from the areas in which it was produced.
The genuine Banarasi silk sarees are handcrafted in only six regions in Uttar Pradesh, according to the provision.
These six districts have their own G.I. marks: Jaunpur, Bhadohi, Varanasi, Mirzapur, Chandauli, and Azamgarh. As a result, always double-check for the mark.
The Authenticity of the seller
Check for good customer reviews and feedback before actually purchasing the banarasi saree from any website. Look at the seller’s social media accounts and reviews to make sure they have a good reputation and only offer authentic Banarasi sarees.
Description of the products
A trusted website like Chinaya Banaras will provide extensive and accurate information about their products. They can provide you with information about the fabric and craftsmanship of each item they sell.
Authentic collections like Chinaya Banaras will also have a wide range, but other providers will only have a small quantity of Banarasi sarees.
Every authentic Banarasi Silk saree has a tale in itself. It has a lot of memories along with it. Make sure you spend your money on the best banarasi saree from the proper store, such as Chinaya Banaras, which has a wide range of pure handloom banarasi silk sarees and other exclusive items available at amazing deals and affordable prices.
How can I tell if a Banarasi saree is real by looking at it in a shop?
Generally, people prefer to visit the store in person to search for the greatest Banarasi silk saree for a wedding or festival. Touch and feel—these two qualities can let you know the difference between a fake and a real one. It is simple to tell the difference between a fake and a real one by touching and feeling the texture of a pure banarasi silk saree. There are techniques to identify an authentic Banarasi silk saree while purchasing one in person from a store. As in, look at the saree's back side first. Just by looking at the back side of the saree, you can predict the authenticity of the fabric, whether it's real banarasi silk or fake. There will always be floats inside the warp and weft grids of loom-woven Banarasi sarees. However, sarees woven by machines will be smoother in texture. Before you buy, look for positive customer reviews and comments. Verify the seller's reputation and that they only sell genuine Banarasi sarees by looking at their social media profiles and reviews. Explore the website of Chinaya Banaras, where you can find real and top quality banarasi silk sarees.
What are pin markings on a Banarasi saree?
Pin markings on a Banarasi saree are small, delicate indentations or holes that are intentionally made during the weaving process. These markings serve as guides for the weavers, helping them maintain the intricate patterns and designs that Banarasi sarees are renowned for. Do you know the weaving of a pure silk saree is done on a traditional handloom, woven with weavers with intricate detailing, and includes a work-intensive process? Pin markings ensure precision and consistency in the motifs and the overall design, especially when dealing with complex patterns like floral, paisley, or brocade. These markings are temporary and typically disappear after the saree is washed or ironed. The presence of pin markings is an indication of the saree's authenticity and the craftsmanship involved in its creation, reflecting the meticulous work of the weavers and the rich heritage of Banarasi textiles. Pin markings are a technique used to identify whether the saree is authentic Banarasi or not.
Should I always ask for a certificate when buying a Banarasi saree?
Yes, of course. Always ask for a certificate to ensure you are purchasing a real silk saree. It is very important to ask for the Certificate of Authorised Use of the Silk Mart Logo whenever you are buying pure silk Banrasi sarees. It is highly recommended to ask for a certificate whenever you are buying a pure silk saree, be it banarasi, cotton silk, tussar silk, or any. A certificate of authenticity serves as a guarantee that the saree is genuine and handcrafted in Banaras (Varanasi), adhering to the traditional weaving techniques. This is important because the market is flooded with imitations that are machine-made or produced in other regions. The certificate typically includes details about the fabric, weaving process, and the weaver's credentials, ensuring that you are purchasing a high-quality, authentic product. Additionally, an authenticity certificate can provide information about the materials used, such as the type of silk and zari (gold or silver thread), which are crucial in determining the saree's value.
Why are pure Banarasi sarees so expensive?
Pure Banarasi sarees are a bit costly because of various qualities, like being woven by weavers on handlooms, which creates craftsmanship and high energy and makes them authentic. First of all, each saree is meticulously woven by trained artisans in Varanasi, a process that may take several weeks or even months. The intricate designs and patterns, often inspired by Mughal art, require exceptional skill and precision. High-quality materials, such as pure silk and genuine gold or silver zari (metallic thread), contribute significantly to the cost. These materials are not only costly but also add a luxurious feel and durability to the saree. Additionally, traditional weaving techniques involve a labour-intensive process that cannot be replicated by machines, ensuring each piece is unique. Because of its cultural heritage and historical value, banarasi sarees are bit expensive. By purchasing a pure Banarasi saree, one is not only buying a garment but also investing in a piece of art that embodies centuries of tradition and artistry. Shop online at Chinaya Banaras, where you can get a variety of silk sarees at the best price.
How can I be sure a website is selling real Banarasi sarees?
To ensure a website is selling real Banarasi sarees, look for several key indicators. Firstly, check for certification of authenticity, which guarantees that the sarees are handcrafted in Varanasi and adhere to traditional weaving techniques. Reputable websites or brands will often highlight this certification and provide detailed information about the sarees' origin and craftsmanship. Next, examine the product descriptions carefully. Real and premium-quality Banarasi sarees will always mention the use of authentic zari work and pure silk. Moreover, it will specify the materials and the intricate handcrafted woven patterns of Banarasi designs. Look for close-up images that show the fine details and texture of the saree. Customer reviews and testimonials can also provide insights into the authenticity and quality of the products. Additionally, established online marketplaces or websites affiliated with recognized textile organizations or government bodies are more likely to sell authentic sarees. Finally, consider the price. Authentic Banarasi sarees are expensive due to their craftsmanship and materials, so be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
What are some traditional Mughal patterns I should look for in a Banarasi saree?
When looking for traditional Mughal patterns in a Banarasi saree, several motifs stand out due to their historical and aesthetic significance. The jaal pattern, a complex web-like design, is highly prized for its intricacy and elegance. Kalga and bel motifs, inspired by floral and foliate patterns, often feature prominently, showcasing the Mughal love for nature. The shikargah motif, depicting hunting scenes with animals and birds, is another classic design that reflects the grandeur of Mughal artistry. Paisley or ambiya motifs, resembling mango shapes, are also commonly seen and are celebrated for their timeless appeal. Additionally, geometric patterns and architectural designs inspired by Mughal architecture, such as arches and minarets, often adorn these sarees. These patterns not only add to the saree's beauty but also tell a story of the rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy of the Mughal era, making each Banarasi saree a piece of history.