The famous Benarasi sari has its origins in Benaras or Varanasi. It is one of the finest types of saris in India. A Benarasi sari typically features silver zari, high quality silk, lavish embroidery and gold brocade. It often reflects Mughal-inspired designs like foliate and floral motifs, bel, kalga, jhallar and leaves. Due to its extensive gold work, minute details, mina work and metallic effects, the Benarasi sari is considered a staple item in a woman’s bridal trousseau.

What makes the Benarasi sari a popular choice amongst brides?

#1 Luxurious Texture
Fabric plays an integral role in a bride’s wedding attire. Your wedding sari should be opulent and “bridal” while being comfortable. Considering the number of lengthy rituals in a Hindu marriage, your bridal outfit needs to be cozy to an extent while being elegant at the same time. A Benarasi sari achieves this feat. Not only is it a gorgeous sari with its silky sheen but it is comfortable and soft to wear.

#2 Array of Colors
Benarasi saris are available in multiple shades and hues, from single colors to mutli-colored hues. Due to the opulence of this sari, most bridal Benarasi saris are made in royal purple, vibrant red, brilliant blues and sunny yellows. The color choice is highly personal and reflects the bride’s personality.

#3 Numerous Embellishments
Whether your Benarasi silk sari is contemporary or traditional in design, it has numerous enhancements on it that make it an ideal choice for wedding attire. These include zardozi work, sequins, thread work, beads, stones and zari, etc. The embellishment you choose is highly personal, but when in doubt you can always opt for a conventional bridal Benarasi sari.

#4 Affordability
Most beautiful things come with a price tag and the Benarasi sari is no exception, especially a wedding one! Although your wedding is a once in a lifetime affair, your budget cannot be ignored. Luckily, Benarasi wedding saris are priced as low as
Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000. This price range is considered manageable by a majority of middle class Bengalis.

To learn more about Benarasi saris or to purchase your very own, please visit Indian Wedding Saree.