National Handloom Day is celebrated every year on August 7 to honour the handloom weavers of the country and highlight India’s handloom industry. In the grand fabric of fashion, where trends keep changing like the sands of time, some threads remain forever beautiful. Yet, amid the whirlwind of contemporary styles, some of these finest weaves run the risk of being pushed to the back of our wardrobes. This Handloom Day, let’s rediscover the charm of these forgotten masterpieces. Anindita Sardar, Head of Design and Curation at Tanera, shares some of India’s lesser-known crafts and textile traditions with HT Lifestyle. (Also read: National Handloom Day 2024: From Mysore Silk, Begumpuri, Kanjivaram to Chanderi, trending handloom sarees for your wardrobe ,
Superb Baluchari
Renowned for its distinctive aesthetic, the Baluchari saree is a masterpiece of Bengali craftsmanship. Adorned with intricate depictions of ancient epics, mythology and folklore, its weave embodies a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and storytelling. Featuring vibrant colours and detailed craftsmanship, the saree has a long pallu decorated with carefully crafted rectangular motifs, often showcasing mythological figures as part of its motif language. Often acclaimed as one of the ‘most luxurious silk sarees of India’, Balucharis are renowned for their refined sheen.
resplendent complexion
Banarasi Rangkat is a gem among the lesser-known Indian textiles. Adorned with gold-hued zari in a soft, vibrant spectrum of colours, this colourwork is the epitome of sophistication. An elaborate tapestry technique is used in the weaving, and each piece takes three to four months, with two skilled weavers working in harmony. The intricate weaving technique interlinks the different coloured patterns together to create a mesmerising surface, which greatly enhances its visual appeal. Tissue lines of zari often add an extra touch of splendour, creating a shimmering effect that captures the essence of luxury. This painstaking craftsmanship makes Banarasi Rangkat not just a saree but a wearable work of art.
Lively Varosi
The Vairaosi, which means “diamond needle” is a must-have in every Kanjivaram saree collection. This classic saree is crafted from pure zari, creating fine, intricate zari lines on the warp that sparkle like tiny diamonds when worn. Owning a Vairaosi Kanjivaram is not just about fashion; it’s about preserving a piece of India’s rich textile heritage.
Shiny Dolly West
This auspicious Chanderi saree is no ordinary stunner. Crafted from pure silk, it is a luxurious piece that feels like a gentle embrace. Unlike the usual Chanderi, this beauty has intricate Jacquard borders that are like miniature masterpieces. The border is decorated with a grand wedding procession with the bride sitting in a palanquin and the groom riding a majestic horse intricately woven into the fabric, telling a tale of love and tradition. Adorning a doli baraat is akin to wearing a vibrant festive wear.
Manohar Gyasar
Gyasar represents a harmonious fusion of Varanasi’s weaving traditions and Tibet’s ceremonial customs. Originating in Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges, this exquisite weave is a wonderful blend of Buddhist artistry and Indian craftsmanship. The rich brocade is produced by twisting three or four gold-coated silk threads into a single twine in the warp, creating bold floral patterns with attractive textured designs. Silk floral motifs etched in gold epitomize the luxurious and intricate nature of Gyasar, making it a true masterpiece of cultural and artistic synthesis.
