Why Is Banarasi Saree Expensive? Let's Find Out!

Have you ever thought about what makes a Banarasi saree expensive? Banarasi saree generally stands out as an epitome of elegance and opulence in all the traditional Indian attire. These sarees are known for their rich silk fabric, intricate designs, and luxurious feel.

However, one thing that often leaves people wondering is why Banarasi sarees come with such a hefty price tag. And still being this expensive, women yearn to get one for their wardrobe. Why?

In this blog, we're going to uncover the reasons why is Banarasi saree expensive.

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Reasons why banarasi saree is expensive 

To truly understand what makes a Banarasi saree expensive, it's essential to know that they have a rich heritage and require skilled craftsmanship that goes into making them. 

The history of these sarees can be traced back to the Vedic period where their use is said to be mentioned in Rigveda, however, their popularity started in the Mughal Era, which definitely proves that they are several centuries old and have prevailed till now. 

Now, we will take you through the various reasons why is a Banarasi saree expensive. 

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The luxurious Silk fabric

One of the primary reasons that makes a Banarasi saree expensive is the silk used in their making. Banarasi sarees are typically crafted from pure silk, which is renowned for its luxurious texture and sheen. The silk is meticulously sourced, and only the finest threads are chosen for weaving. This quality silk not only feels exquisite against the skin but also adds to the durability and longevity of the saree.

The silk used in making Banarasi sarees primarily comes from the southern states of India, especially Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. These regions are known for their silk production, and the silk obtained from them is of high quality. One of the most sought-after types of silk used in Banarasi sarees is "Katan silk," which is typically sourced from these southern states. So, definitely, expensive silk makes expensive sarees.

Now moving on to other reasons…

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The exclusivity and uniqueness Of Banarasi art

There's something truly special about their exclusivity and uniqueness. Pure Banarasi sarees are not mass-produced in factories; instead, they are crafted by skilled artisans, and each piece is a work of art on its own.

Every saree is a masterpiece in its own right, and it carries its own distinct charm. This individuality adds to their allure and makes them stand out in the world.

The weavers pour their hearts and soul into creating these sarees and pay meticulous attention to every detail. The motifs and designs on Banarasi sarees also contribute to their uniqueness. These designs are not arbitrary; they are deeply rooted in tradition and often are symbols of various cultural blends that survived through time. 

Moreover, this ancient art form is handed down through generations within families, and the knowledge and expertise are not easily accessible, only a limited number of artisans can create a living art through a pure Banarasi saree.

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The intricate Zari and Brocade work

If you've ever marvelled at the intricate patterns and shimmering gold or silver threads on a Banarasi saree, you can thank the zari and brocade work for it. Zari is a form of metallic thread that is woven into the fabric to create intricate designs and patterns. 

The use of zari threads, which are often made of pure gold or silver, adds a significant cost to the saree. The brocade work, which includes motifs of flowers, animals, and geometric patterns, is done with great precision and attention to detail, further increasing the value of the saree.

It’s a time-intensive process

Manufacturing Banarasi sarees is a time-intensive process that demands immense patience. From preparing the silk threads to setting up the handloom and weaving the intricate designs, each step requires meticulous care and attention. 

Skilled artisans spend weeks, and sometimes even months, painstakingly weaving these sarees on traditional handlooms. Each saree is a labour of love, with every thread and motif meticulously placed by hand. The amount of effort and time invested in each saree is reflected in its price.

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Tradition and Legacy of Banarasi sarees

Another aspect that makes a Banarasi saree expensive is the preservation of tradition and legacy. Many of the families involved in weaving Banarasi sarees have been doing so for generations. They take immense pride in upholding their ancestral craft and ensuring that it continues to flourish. This commitment to tradition comes at a cost, as it requires continuous investment in training and maintaining the artistry.

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Can we find some affordable options?

Definitely yes! If you’re concerned about the high price of Banarasi sarees, you definitely don’t need to give up on the idea of purchasing them. We are sharing some of the basic ideas, to reduce the hefty prices and still buy a beautiful piece for yourself.

Here we go:

• Consider getting Banarasi sarees made of blended fabrics instead of pure silk. Blended fabrics are a budget-friendly option that comes with various other benefits to combine with Banarasi saree aesthetics and look ethereal at any event.

• You can shop during sales and festivals, this will give you options to compare and make a purchase accordingly as prices go down during special occasions.

• Another thing you can do is purchase a Banarasi saree directly from the manufacturer. This will significantly reduce the cost of Banarasi saree as there are no intermediaries and no price hikes in between. Go to a manufacturer, find your favourite saree within your budget, and buy it. No extra charges…simple, isn’t it?. 

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Final Thoughts

The main factors that make a Banarasi saree expensive are the dedication of the artisans who meticulously weave them, and the quality of the silk used. When you wear a Banarasi saree, you're not just donning a beautiful outfit; you're embracing a piece of Indian culture and tradition.

Albeli has been into banarasi saree manufacturing for decades in Varanasi, and our customers love us for our unique designs on sarees and the high quality we offer. If you're ever in Varanasi, you must visit our banarasi saree shop in Varanasi, as you can explore a stunning collection of pure Banarasi sarees here in your budget range. Here, you can see and feel the elegance of these sarees for yourself. 

We believe that every woman deserves to experience the timeless beauty of a Banarasi saree, and we're here to help you find the perfect one that suits your style and celebrates your individuality.