Fabrics
Katan Silk
Katan silk is a fine, soft and delicately lustrous variety of silk that has made Banarasi textiles renowned across the world. Katan silk fabrics are woven using the finest quality Mulberry silk yarns in both the warp and the weft, crafted in a classic plain weave.
A variation of Katan silk fabric is Silk Georgette (also known as Silk Georgette or Summer Silk). This is also a pure silk fabric, produced by using twisted silk yarns in the warp or the weft. The resulting fabric is lighter and thinner than Katan, making it comfortable to wear even during the hotter months of the year, hence the name Summer Silk.
Mashroo Silk
Mashroo silk is a fabric created by weaving silk and cotton yarns together, with silk on the outer surface and cotton on the inner side. The fabric typically has a glossy, smooth appearance on the outside and a soft, breathable feel on the inside. It has a rich, lustrous look and is comfortable to wear, combining the elegance of silk with the practicality of cotton. Mashroo silk is valued for its durability, vibrant appearance, and the way it feels gentle against the skin while retaining a glossy, luxurious finish.
Khaddi Georgette
The term “Khaddi” in Khaddi Georgette simply refers to handwoven. Georgette fabrics woven on a handloom are commonly known as Khaddi Georgette (and sometimes Chiffon Georgette).
Georgette is a fabric woven using pure silk yarns that have a higher twist. The resulting fabric is lighter in weight, drapes gracefully, and has a slightly crinkled texture.
Tissue
Tissue is a luxurious fabric created by weaving zari threads into the structural weft, along with silk or other yarns in the warp. This unique weaving technique allows metallic zari to become an integral part of the fabric rather than just a decorative element.
The presence of zari throughout the weave gives the fabric a distinctive luminous quality, creating a delicate shimmering surface that reflects light beautifully. Tissue fabrics are prized for their rich appearance, lightweight feel, and elegant translucence, making them a popular choice for festive and ceremonial wear.
Cotton
Cotton, one of the most widely produced fabrics in India, is also handwoven in Banaras. Known for its comfort, breathability, and versatility, it is a fabric well suited for everyday elegance.
In the skilled hands of Banaras’ master craftsmen, cotton is transformed into richly patterned textiles using intricate weaving techniques such as Kadhua and Jamdani, showcasing remarkable artistry and craftsmanship.
Linen
Linen represents a subtle innovation within the Banarasi weaving tradition, introducing a new fibre to a craft that is centuries old. Woven with fine linen yarns, this textile brings a matte texture and an airy lightness to the loom.
Strong, breathable, and gently structured, linen offers a refined balance of durability and comfort. Through this fabric, the language of Banarasi weaving is reimagined in a softer, more contemporary form while still honoring its traditional roots.
Organza (Kora) Silk
This fabric beautifully holds shapes and pleats, making it ideal for sarees that feature intricate weaving, embroidery, or embellishments. Despite its delicate appearance, Kora silk has a firm finish that enhances the richness of designs such as zari work, cutwork, and woven motifs.
Organza silk sarees are often adorned with floral patterns, jaal work, or minimal butis, allowing the fabric’s natural sheen and elegance to stand out. Light in weight yet luxurious in look, they are perfect for festive wear, daytime events, and sophisticated occasions.
Chiniya
Chiniya Silk is a luxurious and finely woven silk fabric known for its soft texture, lightweight feel, and subtle sheen. Originating from traditional Indian weaving techniques, it is especially valued for its smooth drape and elegant finish.
This silk is typically crafted using high-quality silk yarns, resulting in a fabric that is both delicate and durable. Chiniya silk often features intricate weaving patterns, sometimes combined with zari work, meenakari detailing, or delicate motifs that enhance its richness.
Crepe
The fabric is lightweight and falls effortlessly, making it ideal for sarees that offer a graceful, body-hugging silhouette. Its natural elasticity and smooth flow enhance comfort while maintaining an elegant look.
Crepe silk sarees often feature prints, minimal zari work, or delicate embellishments, as the fabric beautifully complements both contemporary and classic designs. Perfect for formal gatherings, evening wear, and special occasions, crepe silk is valued for its refined simplicity and sophisticated appeal.
Tussar Silk
Tussar Silk, also known by its Sanskrit name “Kosa Silk,” is a variety of silk produced by silkworms that feed on wild forest trees rather than mulberry trees. This gives the fabric its distinctive character and natural appeal.
Tussar silk is known for its rich, raw texture and its natural deep golden hue. Compared to other silks, it is also lighter, cooler, and more breathable, making it comfortable to wear in warmer climates.
Tussar Georgette
Tussar Georgette is a beautiful blend of two pure yarns, woven using Tussar silk yarns in the warp and high-twist silk yarns in the weft. This unique combination brings together the natural character of both fibres.
The resulting fabric carries the rich, textured appearance of Tussar while offering the soft, fluid drape and lightweight feel of Georgette.