Silk loom in Varanasi (Banaras)

Threads of Banaras (Silk Weaving Walk)

 

Varanasi previously known as Banaras (also spelt as Benaras), has been a centre of production of hand-loom silk since centuries. Varanasi silk fabrics have been eulogised in scriptures and ancient texts and India’s traditional wedding trousseau is incomplete without a Banarasi Saree. The artistic ingenuity of the artisans and the changing market trends have resulted in a great variety of the Banaras silk fabrics. No two sarees are the similar in quality, colour, design or pattern. Further reading https://edition.cnn.com/style/article/silk-weavers-varanasi-banarasi-sari-intl-hnk/index.html

Varanasi one of the most ancient cities, abode of Lord Shiva – known for its ghats and temples produces the most exquisite silk sarees called ‘Banarasi’ with intricate motifs and gold and silver metal threads. An Indian woman’s wardrobe is said to be incomplete without having at least one of these and these are considered an Indian wedding essential for the bride.  

On this three hours tour led by an expert we give you an interactive experience, walking through the weavers’ loom village that was got a new lease of life after it was patronized by the leading luxury hotel chain – The Taj Group of Hotels’ which adopted it and since, the looms at this weavers village were back in action, producing hand-crafted silk sarees as uniforms for their lady executives, all through their properties in India and abroad.

This walk gives an opportunity to understand and appreciate the craft, meet the weavers’ families to get the first hand information about their socio-economic condition and the evolution of trade from the olden times to the modern ones. This tour is an opportunity to see the hand-looms and understand the dynamics of weaving, sourcing and types of silk being used. On this tour you also visit a weaver’s family and enjoy a cup of tea with him over an interactive session and possibly try your hands on one of the silk piece on the loom.  

 

Cost :

On request – info@tornosindia.com

Starting Time :

11 am (Flexible)

Expected Duration :

3 – 3.5 hours 

Remarks :

This is a craft appreciation walking tour and often a learning experience (hands-on) of silk weaving looms in Varanasi for special interest groups.

The workshop is held at a weavers studio/home. 

Does not operate on a few festivals such as Holi, Diwali, Eid & Mohorram. After Ramzan this walking tour remains suspended for 15 days.  



  • Inclusions
  • Exclusions

Pre-visit Orientation.

Silk weaving expert conduct this walking tour.

Direct interaction with traditional weavers.

Opportunity to order or buy directly from the weavers.

Tea & refreshments at weaver’s home/studio..

Transport cost to and from the starting point (may be booked separately).

Any other food items apart from tea & refreshments.

Any other beverage, other than tea & bottled water which are a part of this tour inclusion.

Experiences