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Listening to the name KASHI instills in one's psyche a sense of reverence, sanctity, and tranquillity. The sacred feelings of this city not only make people want to live here but also make them want to take their final breath here, as it is believed that those who die in Kashi achieve Moksha (Salvation).
Kashi was the city's first name, derived from the Sanskrit word "KAS," which means "to shine." Every soul's darkness is illuminated by the city. Varanasi, Benares, and Banaras are the current names for a historic city on the Ganga's north bank. This city in Uttar Pradesh has a fascinating history, and the city's spellbinding appeal makes every traveling heart feel at home. Varanasi is also named after two tributaries of Maa Ganga, Varuna, and Assi, which constitute the city's border.
Lord Shiva is said to have blessed the city. Har Har Mahadev is the most often used greeting, and it is via this that the Bholenath energies are consistently integrated into every moment. The fact that Kashi was established atop Lord Shiva's Trishul is mentioned in our sacred writings. It is even known as 'SHIV KI NAGRI,' as it was Lord Shiva and Maa Parvathi's humble dwelling. This city is proud of its incredibly diverse culture and values, which are deeply rooted in the hearts of its citizens.
“Banaras ki jaan hai yahan ke Ghat aur Maa Ganga ka sparsh, yahan ke Ghat aur Maa Ganga ka sparsh, yahan ke Ghat aur Maa Ganga ka spar.”
The visual grandeur of the riverside ghats, along with the flowing holy river Ganga, provides tremendous positive energy that portrays heaven on earth, especially in the morning. Thousands of people travel to Banaras each year to see the centuries-old custom of sacred Ganga aarti. The ringing of bells and the well-coordinated high-pitched delivery of Sanskrit shlokas create a wonderful experience, cleaning the soul and the environment.
Varanasi is also known for its Banarasi Silk Sarees, which are considered to be among the best silk sarees made in India and are produced by the experienced artisans of this sacred city.
The History of Banarasi Sarees
A saree manufactured in Varanasi, also known as Benaras/Kashi/Banaras, is known as a Banarasi saree. During the Mughal Empire, around the 14th century, artisans from Banaras began to make a name for themselves by creating intricate silk brocades using gold and silver zari threads. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Banarasi weaving gained popularity and developed expertise. These sarees are famed for their gold and silver brocade or zari, quality silk, and opulent hand weaving, and are among India's finest. The sarees are constructed of highly woven silk and are adorned with elaborate designs, and Banarasi silk sarees have prospered in the market as a result of these engravings.
Mughal-inspired decorations, such as elaborate interwoven floral and foliate motifs, alga and bel, and a string of erect leaves called jhallar at the outer, edge of the border, are unique to these saris. Goldwork, compact weaving, figures with minute details, metallic visual effects, pallus, jal (a net-like design), and Meena work are some of the other hallmarks.
An Indian bride's trousseau frequently includes Banaras sarees.
A saree can take anything from 10 days to a month, and even up to six months to finish, depending on the complexity of its designs and patterns. Banarasi sarees are typically worn by Indian ladies on special occasions such as weddings, and they are supposed to be complemented by the woman's finest jewelry.
Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.
------- by Mark Twain
Silk is in the same boat. It is an ancient cloth made from silkworms and mulberry leaves that is regarded as the most prestigious of all dressmaking textiles. Silk is an enticingly beautiful yarn with a lustrous, sumptuous appearance. The allure of this fabric is indestructible in the hearts of females, as it was once the domain of royalty and then the elite.
Silk was handwoven into sarees in ancient times, which was a difficult and time-consuming operation with an incredible result. Many of us may believe that the rising use of power loom technology in the production of sarees and other fabrics has pushed this hand-weaving heritage to the brink of extinction. However, this is not the case; a major portion of the global population has always valued and used handwoven items. Today's youth are also turning organic and like to dress in environmentally friendly clothing.
Modernity has brought about a lot of changes in fashion, but sarees have never lost their importance. Banarasi Silk has always been a top choice for a bridal trousseau, particularly for Bengali and South Indian weddings, but it has steadily gained popularity for practically every occasion and across India. Banarasi Silk Sarees are a great way to show off your style while yet keeping the traditional vibe. Our talented artisans weave six yards of happiness by hand, and the Banarasi glance these sarees reflect binds consumers to the grandeur of this city.
Check out our latest Banaras Wedding Collection