What is the difference between Paithani and Banarasi saree?

Sarees have been a part of India's rich textile history, and as varied as Indian women’s likings are, the beauty of  sarees have always fulfilled them. 

Among all, two outstanding types are the Paithani and the Banarasi sarees.  Both bring eye-popping appearance when you wear them. Where Paithani gives a heavier look, a sheer Banarasi georgette saree adds some flow.

So, how do you choose between these two gorgeous options that will fit perfectly to the specific occasion you’ll be attending? This is where understanding both 'types' and their differences can help you. 

So, let's get a detailed insight into the difference between Paithani and Banarasi saree and their specialties.

Overview of the enchanting Paithani saree

Originally produced in the town of Paithan, in Aurangabad district, Maharashtra, the Paithani saree is a marvel of handwoven products. 

The dyeing of the yarn and the weaving of the fabric are done by hand in a very professional manner. This excellent work reflects on sleek geometrical and floral work in the saree. It knits up to be reversible, and the back of the saree is as attractive as the front.

A Look at the opulent Banarasi saree

This saree originated from the religious city of Varanasi, also known as Banaras; it comes with a luxurious feel with subtle designs. 

Banarasi sarees are the fine and rich garment showing the unique artworks on silk clothing with a rich touch of zari. 

These sarees are famous for their Mughal-inspired work, which makes them traditional and royal at the same time. Though less in weight than the Paithani saree, Banarasi sarees are easy to style in various draps, making them preferable among women.

Beyond the basics: difference between Paithani and Banarasi saree

There are more features that distinguish Paithani and Banarasi sarees. Let's delve deeper into the key differences between these magnificent sarees:

The weaving technique

Paithani sarees are especially famous for their unique weaving style, which is known as "Bunkar Kashi."  This technique interlocks silk threads and ties to the warp threads during weaving. 

Another technique to weave Paithani sarees is through weft brocade. In this process, craftsmen work with gold or silver zari to make floral and other designs on the pallu and borders of the saree. In most cases, the saree uses plain silk fabric.

On the other hand, Banarasi sarees use the jacquard weaving technique, which allows for intricate all-over designs on the saree's body. It pops out a particular color by taking a few needles to the surface of the fabric and, at the same time, concealing other colors. 

Banarasi sarees also use the Kadwa technique to develop fine brocade with zari work. The weaving takes place in a pit loom where the weaver sits below the warp to create intricate motifs.

Fabric feel

Conventionally, the Paithani sarees often use mulberry silk, which is tender yet sturdily robust. Thus, these sarees are popular to offer an opulent feel of silk and glossy sheen. However, today, Paithani sarees may also have other materials, such as cotton or synthetic ones.

The fabrics used in Banarasi sarees are pure silk, georgette, organza, and even linen. The type of fabric used determines greatly the drape and feel or the weight of the saree. 

Often, the Banarasi saree gives out a luxurious sheen with a smooth and shiny touch, giving you a soft drape. The motifs use silk, gold, or silver zari and, at times, even embroidery threads, which also affect the feel.

Color palate

Traditionally, the colors of Paithani sarees have been very exotic, vibrant, and rich, such as magenta, purple and green. But today, you can find a broader selection of colors, such as vivid red, yellow, orange, and blue.

Like all sarees, Banarasi sarees are also available in a blend of vibrant colors with mostly golden and silver zari work. These include rich red with gold zari work, royal blue hue with silver zari work, and many more traditional colors like elegant greens and royal purple. Beside them, you can also find Bnarasi sarees in white, pink, orange, blue, or multi-colored.

Designs and moftis

The specialty of Paithani sarees includes stripes, check and peacock motifs, etc. Borders and pallu have beautiful zari work in flower or tree-like patterns, more commonly known as the paisley design.

In Banarasi sarees, motifs are far more diverse, with floral patterns, brocade designs, and even figures drawings. The floral brocade weave zari is used in laces, and the designs include paisleys, creepers, and animals. The use of colors varies from pale and clear to those gaudy ones.

Examples of Exquisite Sarees

Some of the varieties in Paithani sarees are the Ek Rutya (the vertical line design), the Baptewadi (checkered), and Kadwa (the four-side border type).

Most of the Banarasi saree are of Jangla Banarasi ( floral lattice pattern), Tanchoi Banarasi ( Geometrical pattern ), and Tanchbhuwa (Motif interwoven) types. 

You can explore options with these patterns, such as Banarasi georgette saree, Banarasi chiffon saree, linen Banarasi saree, Banarasi organza saree, and more. 

Get the perfect saree for the occasion 

Now that you know the difference between Paithani and Banarasi saree, you can make the right choice for the occasion. You may get mesmerized by the designs of the Banarasi saree or the dual-sided painting on the Paithani. 

Both types bring another facet of Indian textile out in the open. Here, the choice depends on your preferred   weight, drape, and whether you can style these sarees fashionably or not.

At Albeli, we have a beautiful collection of sarees that maintains your fascination with this garment. Our designers and skillful artisans remodel the classical motifs of Banarasi sarees with modern patterns. This appeals to the taste of saree lovers around the globe.

For a personal consultation on selecting the perfect Albeli Banarasi saree, simply connect with one of our sales staff via video call. We all are dedicated to help you navigate through our range of options and ensure you bag one or more sarees of your dreams.