Banarasi saree on the net

By K. Kannan

NEW DELHI, JAN. 4.

The antiquity of Banarasi silk can be traced back to the writings of Kautilya and Patanjali who mentioned ``Kashika'' or Varanasi fabric as a precious item. Even while the town prospered in the 12th Century under Garharwar rulers, the Banarasi brocades became immensely popular.

These and other interesting facts are now found in ``banarasi- saree.com'' which brings the vast network of people including weavers, whole-sellers and traders engaged in this activity under one web domain. ``It is the first ever effort to redefine the business of Banarasi saree in such a way that its excellence and beauty vibrates through the fashion markets of western and middle-eastern countries,'' say its promoters.

The information section makes interesting reading. During the regime of Mohammed Tuglaq in the 14th Century, we are told, the famous Naqshabands came to India. In Akbar's reign, the art of brocade flourished. Foreign travellers and writers Ralph Fitch, Peter Mundy, Taverneir and Manucci mentioned the prospering trade of Banarasi brocade.

The site displays a unique selection process and the sarees can be viewed in three categories -- Variety, Occasion and Price Wise. ``Variety'' sarees include Jamdani, Jamevaar, Tanchoi and Baluchari, to name a few. The ``Occasion'' section has sarees for weddings, partying, office-wear and casual wear. There is also the option of a wide variety of price range.

The site aims at providing a window to encourage the purchase of good quality raw material at a reasonable price. Because of the rich weaving tradition, the Banarasi saree is once again in great demand.

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