India’s rich cultural heritage and diversity are looked up to by all the other countries around the globe. Embracing ‘Unity In Diversity’ is one of the many other unique things that form India’s identity. People from different cultures live together in all parts of India, and this has helped us understand, borrow and lend different cultural elements from one another – clothes and fashion being one of them. While people have adopted various cultural elements from each other, a few of them are also common to all, say for instance, a saree for women. It is known to all that sarees are the most popular ethnic wear in India, hence most Indian cultures have saree as their folk costume. Although the designs, patterns and methods of wearing might differ, the basic structure still remains the same.
Here are a few most popular forms of Indian saree:
- Banarasi Sarees
A staple of Varanasi and extremely popular particularly in North India, Banarasi sarees portray royalty and richness. Known for their stunning motifs and patterns, these sarees portray immedicable Indian craftsmanship at their finest. Made of silk threads that are intricately woven together, Banarasi sarees signify the beauty of Indian attires at their highest. Owing to its finesse and unmatched grace, Banarasi sarees are very much in demand all around the globe as well.
- Bandhani Sarees
All the way from Gujarat, the Bandhani sarees are believed to bring good fortune to women especially the brides. Adorned with intricate patterns, hand-dyed and available in various colours, these pure bandhani sarees portray the royal cultures of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
- Kanjeevaram Sarees
Marked by beautiful borders, bold colours and fine silk, Kanjeevaram Sarees are known for the ornate aura they create. Hailing from Tamil Nadu, these sarees are distinguished by a gold tint that enhances their beauty. Weaved from pure mulberry silk, these sarees have motifs inspired by religious tales and temples on them.
- Nauvari Saree
A signature of Maharashtrian women, the Nauvari saree seeks its name from its 9-yard length. Distinguished by a unique style of wearing called ‘Kashta’, this style of saree is a symbol of valour.
- Chanderi Saree
Originating from Madhya Pradesh, the Chanderi Saree is marked by its lustrous texture and bright shine. These sarees are light as air but are also extremely luxurious, which makes them appropriate for all Indian big and small festivities and celebrations.
- Kasavu Sarees
Coming from the southernmost tip of India, the Kasavu sarees are white in colour and fashioned with golden borders that are sometimes even shredded with real gold. The sare features minimalist designs and patterns that give it a very modish feel and look absolutely stunning.
- Pochampally Sarees
Designed with nuanced motifs and geometric patterns, the Pochampally Sarees come from Telangana. The special ikkat style of printing on these sarees gives them a very artistic and graceful look.
Indian attires surely have been revolutionised along with the fabrics and textures but the ethnic charm remains unmatched, for example, a cotton kurti set is available in different types of mix and pure cotton, the latest lehenga design can feature an Indo-western touch to match the modern needs, etc.
