Latest news with #Kanjeevarams
Hans India
a day ago
- General
- Hans India
Banarasi, Kanjivaram, Chanderi: How to Tell These Iconic Indian Weaves Apart
India's weaving traditions are a living tapestry of history, culture, and unmatched artistry. Among the most revered are Banarasi, Kanjivaram, and Chanderi — each celebrated for its distinct look, feel, and heritage. Yet, telling them apart isn't always easy for the untrained eye. With some insight into their origin, motifs, and textures, it becomes easier to appreciate the craftsmanship that defines each of these timeless silks. Here's a quick guide to help you identify the key characteristics of these iconic weaves: Banarasi: Royal Opulence from Varanasi Banarasi silk sarees are synonymous with grandeur. Originating in Varanasi (Banaras), these weaves are known for their heavy gold and silver zari work, often featuring Mughal-inspired patterns like florals, vines, and intricate jhallars (lace-like edges). Their shimmering finish and elaborate detailing make them a popular choice for bridal trousseaus and festive occasions. The fabric tends to be structured and slightly stiff, thanks to its densely woven base and ornate embellishments. Some high-end Banarasi sarees even include pure silver threads, showcasing the painstaking skill of artisans who uphold this centuries-old legacy. Kanjivaram: The Regal Drape from South India Kanjivaram sarees, also called Kanjeevarams, hail from Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu — a region steeped in temple architecture and classical traditions. These sarees are distinct for their unique weaving technique, where the body and border are woven separately and then intricately joined together. Known for their bold motifs like peacocks, elephants, and temple gopurams (domes), Kanjivarams are woven from thick mulberry silk, giving them a rich texture and lustrous sheen. The sarees are both durable and majestic, making them treasured heirlooms in South Indian households. Chanderi: Subtle Elegance from Madhya Pradesh In contrast to the opulence of Banarasi and Kanjivaram, Chanderi sarees are the epitome of lightness and grace. Woven in the town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh, these sarees are prized for their sheer texture, soft glow, and feather-light weight — perfect for summer wear and minimalist occasions. Their beauty lies in simplicity. Chanderi weaves typically feature small, handwoven motifs like butis (tiny dots), florals, and geometric shapes. The fabric is usually a mix of silk and cotton or pure silk, offering breathability along with elegance.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
How to know whether your zari is real or fake?
(Image Credits: Pinterest) Zari is a weaving technique that has passed through generations of elegance and tradition, remaining a cherished part of women's wardrobes. From timeless Kanjeevarams to regal Banarasi silk sarees, zari continues to shine on favorites like organza and tissue sarees as well. Elevating Indian bridal and festive wear with its rich radiance and heritage, it raises an important question: is the zari you're wearing genuine or a clever counterfeit? Why is it a rare luxury? This delicate process is crafted by wrapping a silk thread with high-quality silver and electroplating it with regal gold. This delicate and detailed process is then conducted over multiple stages, making the metal supple enough to be woven into a fabric. This is one of the primary reasons why it has become a rare luxury, leading to people creating and selling fake zari instead at higher prices. (Image Credits: Pinterest) In today's market, inexpensive alternatives for zari are also available, as it can be made from copper-core threads coated with thin silver linings, which is a type of plastic film. It stiffens the fabric and diminishes over time, losing its shine, fading the saree's colour, and stripping the garments of their heirloom quality. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Unfortunately, the naked eye is unable to spot the real difference. But here are a few ways in which you can spot a fake zari while shopping for it. 10 Indian saris every woman should have in her wardrobe Take a deep look at the glow Authentic zari is created from gold and silver threads that give it a subtle yet understated shine and elegance. But the metallic threads, on the contrary, will have a deeper and warmer finish that will not be too reflective and will soon indicate that it's a fake. Assuring the weight One of the easiest ways to spot a real zari saree is to check its weight. Pure zari is created from silver and gold metals, which further adds a significant amount of weight to the fabric. Therefore, if your garment feels too light despite the intricate zari work, then you have a fake in your hand. (Image Credits: Pinterest) Burn it down You don't need to burn the entire saree, but a small thread can be easily pulled out and burnt carefully to see whether it's a real zari or not. Real zari will smell of burning metal and will surely leave ash behind. But synthetic or imitation zari will melt like plastic, giving off a chemical odour. Also, do this test under expert guidance or from an unused thread. Do not burn down your whole saree, and be extra careful. Rub it for authenticity Try rubbing the zari saree gently between your fingers. When it starts to fade, revealing a red, green, or even a plastic-like base underneath, you've mostly come across a fake zari. On the other hand, real zari will retain its structure and colour even after light rubbing. Always ask for a certification Genuine Zari sarees mostly come with a silk mark and Zari authenticity certificate, which are issued by authorised weavers and organisations. Therefore, make sure you request proper documentation if you're purchasing a higher-value piece. Evaluate the weaving pattern In real zari sarees, the metallic thread is absolutely seamless, which will be integrated into the fabric, reflecting uniformity in design. A false zari saree, however, will appear more uneven with a loose finish. Identifying pure zari can be tricky, but not impossible. Therefore, with these tips and careful observation, you can distinguish the fake and avoid falling for synthetic imitations.
News18
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Vidya Balan's Glamorous Transformation: A Look Back At Her Fearless And Fabulous Journey
1/16 Unlike most other actresses, Vidya Balan's debut Hindi film was neither cliche nor glamorous. She chose Parineeta, opposite Saif Ali Khan and Sanjay Dutt. Vidya played a beautiful Bengali woman, winning several accolades in the process. (Image: IMDb) The Dirty Picture, a biopic on the famous South Indian star Silk Smitha, was the turning point in Vidya's career. Not only was she hailed for her acting, but her self-confidence in embracing her curves was considered path-breaking. (Image: IMDb) Over the years, Vidya Balan became a champion for wearing sarees. The beauty was often seen draped in Kanjeevarams and other handloom sarees, even at international events such as Cannes. (Image: Instagram) Vidya Balan has always been fearless and fabulous, be it with her women-centric films, her work-life rhythm, or her fashion statements. And this cover shoot for The Peacock Magazine only goes on to prove the point effortlessly. (Image: Instagram)
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Steal Smriti Irani's Tulsi 2.0 capsule collection, curated by fashion maestro Gaurang Shah
(Image Credits: Instagram) Indian television's iconic 'Bahu' Tulsi Virani is all set for a legendary comeback, as producer Ekta Kapoor revives one of India's most beloved shows, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. The return also marks the reappearance of Smriti Irani's unforgettable 'adarsh bahu' character, still etched into the hearts of millions across the globe. But this revival isn't just a wave of nostalgia - it's also a fashion moment. Celebrated Indian designer Gaurang Shah has taken the reins to redefine Tulsi's look, creating a capsule collection that blurs the line between costume and couture. Known for his expertise in handwoven heirlooms, Gaurang promises to infuse Smriti Irani's character with colour, culture, and elegance through featherlight Kanjeevarams, vibrant silk Bandhanis, Jamdani weaves, and symbolic chiffons. Tulsi's wardrobe will go beyond on-screen style, each piece will tell a story, woven into India's rich textile heritage, and will even be available for audiences to experience. (Image Credits: Pinterest) For the premiere promo, Smriti Irani wore an ethereal Kanjeevaram chiffon saree, a silken whisper of strength and grace, perfectly capturing Tulsi's essence. Draped in traditional Gujarati style, the saree came in a regal purple shade, featuring subtle prints across the bodice and pallu—reflecting the spirit of a woman who balances tradition with progress. 5 street fashion trends that have been making waves in India (Image Credits: Instagram) The capsule collection will also explore intergenerational motifs, highlighting India's vast loomscape with references to double Ikats, modern Paithanis, and more. Through this wardrobe revival, Tulsi's character will once again embody endurance, composure, and power, making her relevant for a new generation while honouring her roots. So, are you ready to witness the grand return and grander wardrobe of Tulsi Virani?
Hans India
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Nothing short of magic on cloth: Smriti Irani on Gaurang Shah's weaves for Tulsi
With the much-awaited return of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, the screen welcomes back not just a beloved show, but a woman whose character became a cultural cornerstone, Smriti Irani as Tulsi Virani. In celebration of this iconic return, designer Gaurang Shah brings forth a textile tribute that goes beyond fashion. Known for his mastery of Jamdani and India's handwoven traditions, Shah has created a capsule that reflects the strength, grace, and rootedness of the character and the actor who shaped her. 'Gaurang Shah has not just designed sarees, he has woven stories, traditions, and modernity into every thread. For Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, his work brought alive the soul of Indian craft through the artistry of our weavers. A timeless confluence of heritage and contemporary thought, his creations are nothing short of magic on cloth.' Says Smriti Irani, politician and a celebrated actor. Drawing from craft traditions across India, the collection for Tulsi features feather-light Kanjeevarams in chiffon, vibrant silk Bandhanis hand-dyed in symbolic hues, and rare Jamdani weaves where every motif carries meaning. Each piece is carefully imagined to mirror Tulsi's journey, layered, enduring, quietly powerful. Among the most striking are double Ikkats, meticulously woven through a painstaking technique that demands precision and patience, qualities that echo in both Tulsi's character and Smriti Irani's real-life journey. 'It has been a true delight to weave for Smriti Irani, a woman who, through Tulsi, became a symbol of strength, grace, and icon for countless Indian women. 'Tulsi represents every woman who holds on to her values while moving with the times. I wanted to create something that honoured that quiet strength. These weaves aren't just clothes, they carry stories, just like she does,' says Gaurang Shah. For the much-celebrated promo of 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2.0,' Gaurang Shah wove an ethereal chiffon Kanjeevaram for Smriti Irani, a drape that mirrored Tulsi's grace and quiet strength, woven not just in silk, but in memory. Each Jamdani thread we wove for her carried not just artistry, but the essence of tradition, just like Tulsi carried the spirit of every Indian home.' Gaurang added 'We're continuing to weave for what's ahead, each piece taking shape as the story does.' With the new chapter unfolding, and Gaurang Shah's weaves adorning Tulsi once again, this isn't just a return, it's a revival of tradition, through the fabric of storytelling.
