Varanasi Silk Handicrafts: A Shopper’s Guide to the City’s Finest

Varanasi, also known as Benares, is the oldest living city in the world and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Apart from being a spiritual hub, Varanasi is also a major center for handicrafts, especially silk weaving.

Banarasi silk is a type of silk fabric that is produced in Varanasi. It is known for its opulence, intricate designs, and vibrant colors. Banarasi silk is used to make a variety of garments, including sarees, lehengas, dupattas, and kurtas. It is also used to make home furnishings, such as bedspreads, cushion covers, and curtains.

Varanasi silk handicrafts are a popular souvenir for tourists visiting the city. However, it is important to do your research and buy from reputable shops to ensure that you are getting genuine products.

Here is everything you need to know about Varanasi silk handicrafts before you go to buy:

Types of Banarasi silk

There are many different types of Banarasi silk, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types include:

• Kora silk: Kora silk is a lightweight and sheer silk fabric that is used to make sarees and dupattas. It is known for its soft texture and elegant drape.
• Tussar silk: Tussar silk is a coarse and textured silk fabric that is used to make sarees, lehengas, and kurtas. It is known for its durability and natural sheen.
• Organza silk: Organza silk is a lightweight and transparent silk fabric that is used to make sarees, dupattas, and scarves. It is known for its crisp texture and airy drape.
• Brocade silk: Brocade silk is a heavy and luxurious silk fabric that is used to make sarees, lehengas, and gowns. It is known for its intricate designs and rich colors.
• Jamdani silk: Jamdani silk is a lightweight and airy silk fabric that is known for its intricate jamdani weaving technique. It is used to make sarees, dupattas, and scarves.

Varanasi silk handicrafts

Varanasi silk handicrafts are made using a variety of techniques, including handloom weaving, embroidery, and block printing. Some of the most popular Varanasi silk handicrafts include:

• Banarasi sarees: Banarasi sarees are the most iconic Varanasi silk handicraft. They are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and luxurious feel. Banarasi sarees are often made with zari (gold or silver threads) and are embellished with sequins, beads, and other decorative elements.
• Banarasi brocade: Banarasi brocade is a heavy and luxurious silk fabric that is used to make sarees, lehengas, and gowns. It is known for its intricate designs and rich colors. Banarasi brocade is often made with zari (gold or silver threads) and is embellished with sequins, beads, and other decorative elements.
• Banarasi stoles and scarves: Banarasi stoles and scarves are lightweight and airy silk accessories that are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. They are often made with zari (gold or silver threads) and are embellished with sequins, beads, and other decorative elements.
• Banarasi home furnishings: Banarasi silk is also used to make a variety of home furnishings, such as bedspreads, cushion covers, and curtains. Banarasi silk home furnishings are known for their opulence and elegance.

How to buy Varanasi silk handicrafts

When buying Varanasi silk handicrafts, it is important to do your research and buy from reputable shops. There are many shops in Varanasi that sell silk handicrafts, but not all of them are genuine. Here are some tips for buying Varanasi silk handicrafts:

• Buy from reputable shops: Ask your hotel or travel agent for recommendations for reputable shops where you can buy Varanasi silk handicrafts. You can also read online reviews to identify reputable shops.
• Ask for a certificate of authenticity: When buying expensive Varanasi silk handicrafts, such as sarees and brocades, ask for a certificate of authenticity from the shop. This will ensure that you are getting a genuine product.
• Beware of fake products: There are many fake Varanasi silk handicrafts on the market. Be wary of shops that sell silk handicrafts at very low prices. Genuine Varanasi silk handicrafts are expensive, so it is unrealistic to expect to find them at a bargain.
• Inspect the products carefully before buying them: When buying Varanasi silk handicrafts, inspect them carefully for any defects. Look for signs of fraying, loose threads, and uneven stitching.

How to bargain for Varanasi silk handicrafts

Bargaining is expected when shopping in Varanasi. Do not be afraid to bargain with the shopkeeper, but be respectful and polite. Here are some tips for bargaining for Varanasi silk handicrafts:

• Start by offering a price that is about 20-30% lower than the asking price. The shopkeeper will likely come back with a higher price, but you can continue to negotiate until you reach a price that is agreeable to both of you.
• Be prepared to walk away if the shopkeeper is not willing to negotiate. There are many shops in Varanasi that sell silk handicrafts, so you will always be able to find a shopkeeper who is willing to give you a good deal.
• Be patient and don’t rush. Bargaining can take time, but it is worth it to get a good price on your purchase.

Here are some additional tips for buying Varanasi silk handicrafts:

If you are buying a saree, ask the shopkeeper to drape it for you. This will give you a better idea of how the saree looks and fits.

If you are buying a piece of jewelry, ask the shopkeeper to show you the hallmark. This will ensure that the jewelry is genuine.

If you are buying a home furnishing item, ask the shopkeeper about the care instructions. Banarasi silk is a delicate fabric, so it is important to care for it properly.

Conclusion

Varanasi silk handicrafts are a beautiful and unique souvenir from your trip to Varanasi. By following these tips, you can ensure that you are getting genuine products at a good price.