There is something quite timeless about Banarasi silk. Banarasis originate from Varanasi (Banaras), Uttar Pradesh, India. Be it the familiar richness, the weight of tradition, and the unmistakable gleam of brocade instantly bring festive grandeur to mind. Yet this wedding season, something interesting is happening. Celebrities are drifting beyond the usual six yards and embracing Banarasi in fresh, rather unconventional silhouettes.
Wondering what we are talking about? Read on.
Aishwarya Rai certainly set the tone when she stepped onto the Cannes red carpet wearing a spectacular Banarasi cape. The rich brocade motifs paired with the modern cape silhouette created a moment that was as memorable as it was refreshing. Fans loved this hatke take on Benarasi!
Shloka Ambani has always had an eye for delicate grandeur, and her Banarasi jacket paired with silk palazzos is pure inspiration. For an event, the Ambani bahu wore handcrafted brocade sharara pants with a delicate zari border. The pants were paired with a Sadri-inspired, archival vintage Banarasi brocade jacket.Sharing the picture on the gram, Manish Malhotra wrote, "Having her wear this piece is a reminder that our craft, when preserved and reimagined, continues to tell stories of tradition, beauty, and timeless artistry."
Sanya Malhotra took things a step further by transforming an old brocade saree into a peasant-style dress. Not only was it charming, it was sustainable. Upcycling a heavy saree into a contemporary garment gives an old piece a brand new life, and feels very in tune with the shift towards mindful fashion.
Recently Ananya Panday stunned fans in a blue Benarasi saree. Ananya Panday’s Ekaya Banaras sari celebrated Banarasi heritage, but with a clear Far East influence. The sky-blue drape was handwoven using Banarasi Tanchoi, a traditional technique that weaves intricate patterns straight into the silk.
Ultimately, what this trend really shows is that Indian textiles are remarkably adaptable. The same fabric once reserved for bridal trousseaus is suddenly front-row at global fashion spaces, reimagined through silhouettes that feel youthful, wearable, and trend-forward.
Which interpretation of the Benarasi did you like?
