1. A Weaver’s Tale from Benarasi Handlooms
Varanasi or Benaras as it is commonly known as one of the oldest cities of India and is the home of
Benarasi handloom. It is a heritage that has been known for its intricate work, gold and silver
brocade and fine embroidery. Remarkable for their opulence and grandeur, Benarasi handlooms and
handwovens were exported to countries like Rome and Athens for queens during the Mughal era. Its
silk weaving skills are thought to have evolved with the migration of weavers and traders from Gujarat
from around the mid-eighteenth century.
To create this fine piece of art, weavers spend days and nights weaving on looms. It takes more than two
months to make one Benarasi Saree.
We remember Veteran designer Ritu Kumar's last year collection on 'Varanasi Weaves', that aims to bring
back the fabulous tradition of gold and silver weaving in Benaras, back into the mainstream flow of fashion.
'Varanasi Weavers', a project started by an NGO called Upasana, works on the social development of a section
of weaving communities in Varanasi.
"Benaras weaves are almost like a monument worth preserving like no other, in the world."