Banarasi Pure Handloom Khaddi Bandhej Saree

A Banarasi Pure Handloom Khaddi Bandhej Saree with Neem Zari is a masterpiece of Indian textile art, combining several traditional crafts into one exquisite garment.

Banarasi: This refers to the origin and weaving style of the saree. Banarasi sarees are a symbol of opulence and tradition, originating from Varanasi (also known as Banaras), a city in Uttar Pradesh, India. These sarees are known for their intricate brocade work, often featuring Mughal-inspired designs like floral motifs, paisleys, and a string of upright leaves called ‘jhallar’ at the border.

Pure Handloom: This indicates that the saree has been woven on a traditional handloom, a process that is entirely manual and requires a great deal of skill and time. This craftsmanship is a hallmark of authenticity and contributes to the uniqueness of each saree, as slight variations are a testament to its handmade nature.

Khaddi: This term refers to the fabric’s characteristic. Khaddi is a hand-spun, slightly textured fabric. It is often combined with other materials like georgette to create a lightweight, comfortable, and elegant drape.

Bandhej (or Bandhani): This is a highly skilled tie-and-dye technique used to create intricate patterns on the fabric. The name comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Bandhana,’ which means to tie. Tiny portions of the fabric are tied tightly with thread before dyeing. When the threads are untied after the dyeing process, the knotted areas resist the dye, revealing a beautiful array of patterns like dots, waves, and stripes. The art of Bandhej is traditionally practiced by artisans in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Neem Zari: This is the special type of metallic thread used for weaving the designs. While traditional zari was made from real gold and silver, modern variations use different materials. Neem Zari is a particular type of zari known for its lustrous, smooth, and silky feel. It adds a rich, celebratory look to the saree.

In summary, a Banarasi Pure Handloom Khaddi Bandhej Saree with Neem Zari is a luxurious garment that is:

• Woven by hand in Varanasi.
• Made with a lightweight, textured fabric (khaddi georgette).
• Decorated with intricate tie-and-dye patterns (bandhej).
• Embellished with fine, lustrous metallic threads (Neem Zari).

These sarees are considered a classic piece of Indian traditional wear, ideal for special occasions like weddings and festivals, and are often passed down through generations as family heirlooms.