National Handloom Day August 7 is celebrated every year in India to pay tribute to the handloom weavers and showcase the country’s rich handloom industry. The legacy of Indian handloom is centuries old and is as diverse as the dialects and cuisine of our country. Each region has a rich weaving heritage that continues to evolve with ancient weaving techniques and Design. Embellished by people since ancient times, the saree is the most popular traditional dress in India.

From being a loving family Inheritance To mark every auspicious moment in one’s life, sarees hold extraordinary emotional significance in South Asian culture. With the growing focus on handlooms due to their durability and longevity, handlooms Sarees has gained a lot of popularity. Owning a piece of handloom is like owning a piece of heritage art that combines tradition with functionality. (Also read: Interview with Jayanthi Reddy: Insights on her latest collection, cultural roots and the future of traditional crafts )

Asha Patil, Founder, Banjara Kaswati shares with HT Lifestyle some stunning handloom sarees that showcase India’s vibrant cultural heritage:

Mysore Silk Saree.

Mysore Silk saree Unrivaled prestige continues regular beauty and unparalleled grandeur. Originally reserved for royalty and later extended to high-ranking individuals, this luxurious saree is now worn by all. Despite the influx of different saree styles in the market, the popularity and allure of the Mysore silk saree is undiminished, owing to its enduring refinement and exceptional craftsmanship, as well as its minimal maintenance requirements. The use of pure gold and silver threads not only enhances the beauty of the fabric but also adds to its longevity which results in the fabric’s luster not diminishing or diminishing.

An important feature of these sarees is their longevity – the colors rarely fade due to the use of pure gold and silver threads. Although considered a premium and delicate textile, it surprisingly requires minimal maintenance. The beauty of Mysore silk sarees is often enhanced by intricate embroidery, intricately woven pleats, and innovative color combinations. This addition serves to highlight the timeless appeal of the saree, seamlessly blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary flair.

Begum full saree.

Originating from a small town in Begumpur, West Bengal, Begumpuri cotton sarees are made from pure cotton and feature bold color combinations with contrasting borders – usually incorporating geometric patterns, neighboring Influenced by the aesthetics of North East Indian states. Known for their durability, Begum Puri sarees are perfect for everyday wear and work environments and are capable of withstanding long, busy days. The versatility of the weave is evident in its thread count range, which spans from the 60s (coarse cotton) to the 100s (fine cotton).

Kanjeevaram silk saree

Hailing from Tamil Nadu, Kanjeevaram sarees are a product of expert craftsmanship, showcasing the intricate work of talented artisans. These luxurious dresses are made using high quality pure mulberry silk, known for its lustrous look. What really sets Kanjeevaram sarees apart is their elaborate embellishments. Intricate patterns and motifs are intricately woven directly into the fabric. This is accomplished using authentic silver or gold zari threads, which contribute to the formal appearance of the saree.

Chandri Saree

Originating from Madhya Pradesh, Chanderi sarees exemplify India’s rich textile heritage, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and delicate allure. These sarees mesmerize their audience with their hand-woven designs, shimmering textures, and intricate motifs, all carefully crafted by skilled artisans. The mere mention of Chanderi sarees evokes images of regal beauty – reminiscent of a glorious past.

Tracing its roots back to Vedic times, Chanderi sarees hold deep cultural significance, deeply intertwined with Indian history. The weaving tradition, passed down from generation to generation, is a testament to the enduring artistry of its creators. From the Mughal era to today, Suti Chanderi sarees have adapted to changing trends while maintaining their distinctive character.

Penkari sarees

Kalamkari sarees are highly regarded for their unique blend of traditional craftsmanship, artistic expression and refined aesthetics. These garments stand out for their handcrafted designs, with a rich tapestry of symbolic elements. The intricate patterns adorning kalamkari sarees are inspired by various sources, especially from ancient Indian mythology, such as gods, trees, flowers, animals and birds.

Kalamkari, an art form practiced in Andhra Pradesh in two distinct styles (Machalipatnam and Srikalahasti) has continuously fascinated and mesmerized its admirers. Its widespread appeal stems from a combination of factors: a vibrant color palette, diverse thematic choices, precise linework, subtlety, and versatility in different fabrics. The sari, in particular, serves as an ideal medium for kalamkari artistry, allowing artisans to meticulously handcraft intricate narratives, lush floral designs, and other decorative motifs.

Bringing her expertise to bear on the same, Aparna Thagarajan, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder, Shubitham shares the latest trends in handloom sarees for your wardrobe.

Banarasi silks

A symbol of luxury and unparalleled craftsmanship, Banarasi is a heritage treasure. Varanasi, also known as Benares, has been a melting pot of domestic and international influences due to its history as an ancient trade route and trendy tourist destination. Hence the design vocabulary of Benares is beautifully diverse reflecting Mughal, Persian, Hindu and other Asian influences. A contemporary Banarasi saree is a multicultural tapestry of heritage.

Chikankari sarees

Favored by the Nawabs of Lucknow, the beauty and elegance of an artist Chikankari is unparalleled. Dense embroideries on fabrics like chiffons and georgettes give it a luxurious net-like look. With embellishments ranging from Mukesh work to meticulously woven paisley to light and airy embroidery, Chikankari offers the perfect blend of minimal and maximalist.

Akt silks

The design aesthetic of the antique akats has a timeless appeal that resonates with today’s fashion. Ikkat involves a complex resist dyeing technique with precise mathematical calculations. With vibrant geometric patterns, fluid designs, and classy appeal, Ikkat is a great choice for statement dressing.

Linen

The contemporary appeal and breathability of the linen saree make it a worthy candidate for all seasons. The distinct texture of the saree gives it a chic look. A perfect blend of versatility, style and comfort, these sarees are an enduring choice that brings out one’s true personality with endless styling possibilities.