Timeless, elegant, traditional, priceless are words that have been used in abundance while describing Benaras’s crown jewel — their saris. The rich weaving history of the land can be traced back to the 17th century, till it became synonymous with every auspicious occasion in Indian households. A staple at Indian weddings with brides looking resplendent in a richly woven Benarasi silk, the weave has now become a much-loved occasion wear for all. Why save the glorious feeling for just your wedding day?
To bring you the most perfect looks that can be created for the Pujas, we dove into Ananda’s overwhelmingly large collection. What we found are ways to incorporate the Benarasi into your five days of festivities –– we promise there is something for everyone. Take a look!
A clear favourite of the house, this soothing pastel Benarasi in light pink and sea green with silver work and classic corner paisley pallu had us do a double take. We meant business when we said there is a Benarasi for every occasion.
The striking purple and red dual tone of the baluchari design on this katan Benarasi sari is minimal chic, perfect for a light afternoon festive brunch. Team with some gold jewellery, depending on the occasion, and you are all set!
For a finale night of fun, be it Pujas or lavish weddings, we have the perfect choice for you –– this navy blue katan Benarasi with heavy work in classical jaal design in meenakari, silver and gold!
A sari so rare that it deserved a second glance, this jamdani silk Benarasi in wine colour is a masterpiece from the hallowed land. The Mughal motifs are so muted, you can accessories it just the way you want.
Did you really think we would look through Benarasi saris and not get drawn towards a quintessential red? The traditional khajoor charri style (diagonal) with a gold and silver aara design ensures that you can team this one with both silver or golden jewellery. We love!
Some designs will never go out of style, just like the barfi design which is beautifully sown into this katan Benarasi in gajari colours, using silver and gold threads. Picked up straight from the weaver’s archives, the style and colour both spell class!
Styled after the traditional Vishwakarma special saris, this orange, silver and gold Benarasi is woven with fine intricate details and makes for a definite showstopper.
Did you really think we would look through Benarasi saris and not get drawn towards a quintessential red? The traditional khajoor charri style (diagonal) with a gold and silver aara design ensures that you can team this one with both silver or golden jewellery. We love!
STYLIST SPEAK: For me, the Benarasi is not a sari, it’s an emotion. It’s a heritage piece that is feel-good as it is versatile. It is glamorous just as it is capable of being muted and it can definitely be styled for every occasion and every age group. Ananda’s designs are so unique and all one-of-a-kind that I loved styling each piece to bring out their USP. They are versatile and can be styled with silver jewellery or gold. Ananda keeps bringing back our traditional designs alive in the most contemporary fashion and that’s what everyone should keep in mind while draping one
— Anupam Chatterjee
Pictures: Pabitra Das
Model: Shreelagna Banerjee
Make-up: Abhijit Paul
Make-up assistant: Sananda Laha
Stylist: Anupam Chatterjee
Assistant stylist: Rituparna Chakraborty
Saris: Ananda
Silver jewellery: Karishmaz — The Silver Story
Gold and diamond jewellery: AVAMA Jewellers
Blouses: Warssi Kolkata
Location courtesy: The Park Kolkata
