First Banarasi Saree Experience: Customer Review

I remember talking to my friend on an outing about how I wished to style Banarasi Saree for her wedding. The conversation landed upon a trip to Banaras and how she insisted me to just at least have a glance at all the sarees that place has to offer. 

I was reluctant at first but the air of Banaras has some magic in it. You just want to keep breathing it!

And that’s how the journey of experiencing Banaras, buying myself a Banarasi saree from Albeli, and ultimately flaunting it at my best friend's wedding is one of the most cherished memories of my life to date. 

Let’s read the entire journey of how I chose my first Banarasi Saree!

Welcomed to the city of lights

When we got off the train at Varanasi Junction, the city greeted us with a lot of colors and sounds. The air was heavy with the sound of street food cooking, temple bells ringing, and rickshaws clattering. 

Our choice of lodging was a charming guesthouse close to the Assi Ghat, which put us near the river and the lighting city markets.

Here begins the exploration

We spent our first day touring the ancient temples and ghats. The ghats, occupied by pilgrims, sadhus, and townspeople, presented a scene of daily life and devotion. 

Our journey was made even more magical by the peaceful boat ride on the Ganga in the morning when the sun was rising over the horizon.

We found ourselves meandering around the old city's maze-like passageways by mid-morning. Vendors hawked everything from spices and flowers to souvenirs and fabrics throughout the winding streets. 

We tried Banarasi street food for the first time here. We indulged in fiery kachoris, piquant aloo puri, and the regional specialty, tamatar chaat. 

Bold and colorful flavors, just like the city!

Hunt for the perfect saree

And here begins the hunt for finding the perfect Banarasi Saree!

I was tempted to take something along and nothing could have been better than a Banarasi saree so here comes Albeli in the picture. We were aware of Albeli, a well-known saree store renowned for its superb selection and talented craftsmen. 

The sheer number of sarees on display as soon as we walked into the showroom was unbelievable. 

The most beautiful part was, how everyone in the shop was ready to discuss the history of Banarasi sarees, explaining the complex hand-weaving technique and the meaning behind the many designs and patterns. 

Each piece of these sarees is a tribute to the rich cultural legacy of the city since the art of their creation has been passed down through the years.

I learned that the Banarasi saree is famous for its elaborate brocade and silver or gold zari embroidery. It first became well-known in history during the Mughal Empire, when it stood for elegance and skill. 

Traditionally, these sarees were worn by brides and members of the royal family to symbolize elegance and prosperity. As a symbol of India's rich textile legacy and artistic talent, Banarasi sarees are still highly prized cultural artifacts today.

Laid hands on the best

We were flooded with immense options, I couldn't make a choice. We were shown all the types and after so much deliberation, something caught my eye! Oh yellow Banarasi Saree!

It was a bright yellow saree with a beautiful paisley-patterned border made of gold and silver zari. The saree was nothing less than royalty and felt like sunshine on fabric. 

My best friend concurred that it was the ideal option, and I knew I had discovered the saree of my dreams.

We truly came back with the best trip ever and today, I yearn to relive that again!

Wearing banarasi saree for the first time: A feeling so surreal

Finally came the day when I wore the Banarasi Saree for my best friend’s wedding. 

I still feel so good when I recall all the compliments I got, I mean everybody was in awe of that golden shine of my saree. The best part was I felt comfortable and lovely the entire day, the silky silk beautifully moving with me. 

I felt a strong bond with the cultural legacy the saree symbolized as I laughed, danced, and took part in ceremonies. A lavish feast marked the end of the evening, and the saree held up beautifully during the hours of celebration—a monument to the everlasting beauty and skill of Banarasi silk.

Final words

When I look back today, all I can possibly think about is how a conversation can manifest into a reality that is one of my best memories. The first conversation I had with my friend about designing a banarasi saree for her wedding led to an amazing trip to Banaras. 

The beautiful atmosphere, customs, and abundant past of the city drew me in. Finding Albeli and selecting the ideal yellow saree, which combined custom with individual flair. 

The experience of wearing the saree at the wedding was unforgettable, filled with innumerable comments and the comfort of the fabric throughout the day. 

More than just a shopping excursion, my trip to Banaras was an exploration of culture, friendship, and the magic of a perpetually inspirational city.

Undoubtedly, Albeli plays the lead role in this memory!