"Banaras - A Shopping Paradise"
Banaras-A
Shopping Paradise
Banaras is the World’s oldest and continually inhabited city, Banaras is a time-honoured city of spiritual bliss and historic remnants. Banaras is cultural capital of India. Banaras is one of the seven holy places according to Hindu religion. Banaras is blessed by Lord Viswanath. Every hindu wants to come in Banaras in his life time atleast once. When we thing about Banaras Temples, holy ghats, narrow street, Saree of Banaras and Banarasi Paan comes in our mind. There are many artisans in Banaras which are mostly Muslim weaves Banarasi silk sarees.
Banarasi Saree is not only centre of attraction among common woman, but also Bollywood Divas as well. While writing about Banarasi Saree, I would like to remember a famous marriage of Bollywood Star Anushka Sharma and Cricketer Virat Kohli. They tied the knot in 2017 in an intimate ceremony in Tuscany, Italy. Their wedding was like a fairytale we must say. After wearing pastel for her wedding Anushka chose the traditional color red for her Delhi reception. We saw the actress wear a classic red Benarasi saree with rich gold weaves which marks the beauty of this particular type of sari. The sari was woven in the by-lanes of Peeli Kothi in Benaras. The silk Banarasi sari was worn over a red blouse with gold embellishments on the sleeves. Anushka accessorized with a beautiful gold and diamond choker and jhumkas along with gold kadas. She chose nude pink lips with kohl eyes. Paired with a red bindi and sindoor, the whole look gave us full new-bride vibes. The Anushka's hair was centre parted and tied back into a bun with a gajra that finished her look perfectly.
Banaras was famous for
the production of perfumes, Ivory works, sculpture and fabrics. The Banarasi
silk still rules the heart of every Indian woman and equally fascinate the international tourist.
With the grace of
almighty Baba Vishwanath I got opportunity to visit Banaras with my family 18
months back. Although Banaras is heaven for foodie, if you have interest in
shopping the city is for you. For exploring fabric in Banaras I visited along
with my family different places. My wife was fond of shopping. She was excited
during shopping. I thing without shopping your Banaras tour won’t be complete.
So If you come to Banaras visit these places compulsory.
IP
Mall
If
you want to buy branded stuff in Banaras IP Mall is excellent. IP
Sigra Mall is first mall of Banaras’s. It is located at Sigra, one of prime
location of the city. This Mall has numerous stores, mainly reputed clothing
brands such as Wrangler and Provogue. If you’re looking for a meal break
between the shopping, there are several fast-food outlets place. You
should visit to the Moti Mahal restaurant and sample the Butter Chicken, their
signature dish. But if you’re excited to whip up your meal, supermarket SUPER99
has all the groceries you need. You can do either window shopping or regular
shopping there. We explore this beautiful mall and the various stores, but many
things are costly. There are movie theaters, food court, and branded showrooms.
Moviegoers
can visit IP Cinemas to catch the latest flicks in town. Every traveler can find easily location of
mall. Plan to visit this multi-storey mall when you have enough time. For all
the youngsters, this is the perfect place to chill-out.
Although the prices at the mall are a bit higher owing to its prime location, a
visit to IP Mall is definitely worth your while.
Address-
Sigra, Kabir Road, Varanasi, India
Time- 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Harmony
Book Shop
Books
are the best friends for you if you have fond of reading. My father likes good
Books. The Harmony Book Shop has been a popular destination for book lovers in
Banaras. This was opened in 1996. Harmony Book Shop is situated in Assi ghat
has become a special cultural center in Banaras. You will find a fusion of
academics, art and all forms of intellectual exchange and rich conversation
taking place at the Harmony Book Shop. I have pleasant experience at Harmony
Book shop. Harmony Book Shop introduces Banaras the most interesting and
path-breaking books from all over the world. There are also specialize academic
texts about India its culture, heritage, and history. They are constantly on
the lookout for interesting titles and latest books written by author. They
also have an extensive online store.
Address-
B. 1/158 Assi Ghat, Varanasi 221005, India
Time- 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Vishwanath Gali
Vishwanath Gali is the
place from where street shopping of Banaras can be done. Another beloved stop of
shopping lovers is the crowded market of Vishwanath Gali. Vishwanath gali’s
market smaller compared to Godowlia Market packed with excited tourists and localities
but has a wide variety to satisfy its customers. From tailored and readymade
fabrics to wooden handigrafts, you can find anything and everything over here.
The sweet aroma of delecious dishes fills the
lanes as you walk through the street, admiring the multihued fabrics at display
in the stalls. Banarasi sarees, designer carpets, embroidered shawls, funky
jewelry and classic accessories are bought in huge numbers by travelers
visiting Vishwanath Gali. Looking at the metal and wooden effigies of Hindu
deities, you cannot help but admire the talent possessed by the local
craftsmen. It is the excellent place
for shopping for all the travelers. This cost-effective place has varied
choices and suits every individual’s taste. You can look out for Banaras
sarees, dresses, jewelry, sweets, music CDs and more. You can avail some of the
traditional objects in this street along with modern objects. Kurtis and sweets which are sold here is famous
among not only locals but also the travelers. Shop for the top-notch and
beautiful idols of Gods made from wood and brass. In these lanes, try some of
the delectable snacks and desserts served in the local eateries.
Address-
Vishwanath Gali, Lahori
Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Time- 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Zindagi
Jewelery Shop
Jewelry
is attractive item for all Indians, especially women. You will find a host of
lovely little jewelry shops in the by-lanes of Banaras. Zindagi Jewelry Shop
has dazzling items on display all through the year. You will find everything
from traditional to modern designs, gold and silver articles and other kinds of
knick-knacks and souvenirs. The best thing about the Zindagi Jewelry Shop is
that they proceed from their sales towards social causes and the upliftment of
those in need and supports women empowerment and children's education. The shop
owner and sales staff are well equipped to answer all your queries and teach
you all about the craftsmanship and history of the items on display. The
Zindagi Jewelry Shop is definitely one place you must visit whenever you are in
Banaras. Zindagi Jewelery shop
is located on Pandey Ghat, Varanasi.
Address- D29/4-4 Devnathpura -
Pandey Ghat, Varanasi 221001, India
Time- 10AM to 8 PM
Sharma
Toys Emporium
If
you are exploring for an extraordinary souvenir to buy for your child or loved
one in Banaras, you can go Sharma Toys Emporium. We find a great collection of
toys here, both ancient and modern. Sharma Toy Emporium is a big and well-known
toy shop in Varanasi. The toys here range from modern day ones to antique
pieces used by kings and emperors several years ago. Visit this toy shop for a
memorable experience. Sharma Toys Emporium has enchanted visitors since its
inception at the Dashashwamedh area. The prices of the toys are reasonable,
except for historical pieces which are the real treasures of this place. Take
some time out and visit this interesting place surely.
Address-
D.17/147 Dashashawmedh, Varanasi 221001, India
Time-
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Banaras Art
Gallery
Banaras Art
Gallery is famous place for art lover. You can go there. When you visit the
place, look out for some of the local artists’ art. Local artists put in a lot
of effort and passion into creating these beautiful masterpieces. You can find
both tribal and contemporary statues, which can be used for decoration purpose.
All these objects are of top-notch quality and come at a fixed price. Banaras art
gallery has been well-maintained and the staff ensures the best collection. You
can find unique and interesting arts at this gallery. You can explore some of
the creative paintings of different kinds at this store.
Address- Rani Laxmi Bai Lane Assi Main Road, Varanasi 221005,
India
Time- 9AM to 9 PM
Baba
Black Sheep
You
will feel pleasant and non-pushy shopping experience, while visiting Baba Black
Sheep. The shopping here is a costly. There is no compromise in quality. You
can choose from a wide variety of fabrics where silk is the best among them.
Here, beautiful silk sarees, scarves and pashminas are bought by the travelers.
Reach the place with easly as it is present at prime location of Bhelpura in
Varanasi. All the prices of the products are fixed and are reasonable to the
quality of the products available. Baba Black Sheep is a must-visit place if
you are in Banaras. We enjoyed shopping at this place and took home reliable
products. Also, the shop offers the best bedcovers and cushion covers. The
supportive staff will assist you in selecting your preferred type of clothes.
Address-
B 12/120 A-9 (Near Kerela Cafe), Varanasi 221010,
India
Time- 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
The
Bed Silk And Pashmina
Banaras
is also known for its shopping places along with ancient temples and River
Ganges. All kinds of economical products are available here. Step into Bed Silk
and Pashmina shop located at Assi Ghat in Varanasi for buying amazing fabrics
of all kinds, including cotton, linen, silk and more. Buy here for the best
quality clothes, bedspreads, pillowcases, table clothes, pashminas, and
scarves. Various designs from all the parts of the country can be available
here, which amuses you with its unique designs. The friendly staff makes your
buying memorable. The colorful Banarasi silk sarees and shawls are the main
attractions of this place. If you are in Banaras and want to shop clothes, this
is the best place to visit.
Address-
B1/153 Ganga Math Assi Ghat, Varanasi 221005,
India
Time- 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Aroma
Garden
Aroma
Garden is like a treasure trove in Banaras. For a person exploring for all the
basic amenities at one place, Aroma Garden is the answer to the call. If you
are on a tour of this holy city, upon arrival, you can head to Aroma Garden to
collect all the necessary amenities needed during your stay. All the products
are of good quality and ranges from a low to Moderate budget. The place is not
only popular among local people but also travelers. Natural, handmade incense
and fresh, packaged date palms are commonly buy items at this place. You can
use it for ‘Aarti’ on the banks of Ganga or can the incense sticks home for
religious purposes. The dates from this place let you greet a guest at home
warmly. You can go Aroma Garden if you
are in Banaras.
Address-
80, Durgakund Rd Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur,
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010
Vibgyor
Impex
If
you want to buy jewelry and precious stones, Vibgyor Impex is the place you
should visit, when in Banaras. Vibgyor Impex is
a favorite among the women, both old and young with a vibrant collection of fashion
jewelry. This place also has a big collection of souvenirs from different parts
of India. Walk in at this place to take a look at the jewelry collection here
and get mesmerized. This showroom is located in the heart of the city and is
known for good behavior of staff members and the reasonable prices. Ample
parking space is also available at this place. Good quality fashion jewelry
made of glass beads are a specialty here. So if you are here, get amazed by the
collection of souvenirs and jewelry and take home some of them for your family and
friends. You should visit this colorful place surely.
Address-
S-20/53-94, Buddha Vihar, Varanasi, India
Time- 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Jagdish Das and Company Shop Banaras
Banarasi sarees are love. There would
be hardly any women across India who wouldn’t want to have a Banarasi saree in
her collection of sarees. From different designs to patterns, Banarasi sarees
are available in a wide range and each one of these is as beautiful as the
previous one. However, the fact that makes these Banarasi sarees so beautiful
and elegant is the different weaving techniques used by manufacturers across
the country.
While most of the weaving techniques
and patterns might seem similar to most, they are actually not. There are slight
differences in each and every weaving technique.
Famous Weaving Techniques
1. Kadhwa
Kadhwa weaving techniques, which is also known as Kadhua, is one of the most complicated techniques of Banarasi sarees. Moreover, this weaving technique is also one of the most laborious ones. Using this technique, each motif is woven separately. Being said that, any number of designs, sizes, and colors of motifs can be woven into a single saree. Thus, the Kadwa Banarasi sarees require much more time as compared to other techniques.
2. Cutwork
In the cutwork weaving technique, all
of the motifs are weaved together. Therefore, the cutwork Banarasi saree
requires lesser time as compared to the other more laborious Banarasi sarees.
Once the weaving is completed, a bunch of silk threads on the backside of the
Banarasi cutwork sarees are cut down. Being said that, the Banarasi cutwork
sarees come in most of the different patterns as well as designs.
3. Kadiyal
The Kadiyal weaving technique is used
for incorporating silk threads of various colors in the wrap so as to make the
border of the Banarasi saree contrast with the body color. During the weaving
process, the technique needs several switches in the weft shuttle.
Additionally, it also requires careful dyeing and setting up of the wrap.
4. Meenakari
Meenakari weaving technique is one of
the oldest weaving techniques. The weaving technique consists of using one or
more colors of Resham threads. In some of the Meenakari Banarasi saree, you
will also find a perfect mixture of zari and Resham being used at the time of
weaving. Being said that, the Meenakari weaving technique can be done in both
cutwork and Kadhwa style.
5. Tanchoi
Tanchoi weaving technique is one of the most intricate weaving techniques used in Banarasi sarees. This technique makes use of one or two warp threads along with multiple colored wefts. Some of the famous motifs used during the Tanchoi weaving technique include peacocks, parrots and flowers.
Patterns of Banarasi Sarees
1. Bandhani Silk Saree
Bandhani silk sarees are made using the tie-dye technique. Whereas, the Banarasi Bandhani (Banarasi Bandhej) is an amalgamation of Banarasi heritage and old age tie and dye technique. These are lightweight and therefore, making them suitable to wear during summer.
2. Georgette Silk Sarees
Georgette Silk Sarees are the lightweight fabric that comes with highly twisted yarns. Such types of Banarasi silk sarees are made using gold and zari threads. The Georgette silk sarees are easily the most distinctive Banarasi sarees as they are comparatively lightweight. Being said that, these Banarasi sarees are a delight to wear in their contemporary yet comfortable appeal.
3. Katan Silk Sarees
There is a rich history associated with Katan silk sarees. The origin of the Katan pattern goes back to Persia. Women from the royal family often wore Katan silk sarees during the Mughal Empire. Because of the royal look offered by the Katan pattern, the Katan Silk Banarasi saree is perfect wear for any wedding in your home.
Katan silk sarees makes for a sturdy wear that maintains their durability over longer period of times. In addition, these sarees are also remarkable for their exquisite sheen owing to them being silk sarees.
Where to buy sarees of these different weaving techniques and patterns?
There are several stores where you can find sarees based on these weaving techniques and patterns. However, if you are looking for some of the best Banarasi saree collections, then no other place like Varanasi. To be more precise, JDS Varanasi.
At JDS, you will find some of the finest collections of Banarasi sarees
available at your disposal. Moreover, with hundreds of years of weaving
experience and endless hours of craftsmanship, there is no compromise in
quality when it comes to JDS Varanasi. Therefore, if you are in Varanasi and
are looking for some of the most meticulous handloom Banarasi sarees, JDS is
your one-stop solution.
Address-
CK 19/16, Chowk, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India
Time-
10AM to 8 PM
Vandana Sarees
In 1975, Vandana Sarees started
out as a small business in the holy city of Varanasi. Situated amidst the mystical lanes of Kashi
Vishwanath (Vishwanath Gali), Vandana Sarees was established with the aim and
desire of bringing the best women apparel with top notch quality and designs
from every nook and cranny of India and making it available at one place for
their customers.
Being manufacturers and wholesalers of Banarasi Sarees, they provide exclusive
designs of Shikargaah, Tanchoi, Kadhwa, Khaddi sarees to visters.
Having been operating for over 40 years in the textile industry, Vandana Sarees
has become synonymous to a token of trust and quality for its customers.
Address-
Near, Usha Gupta Lane Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
221010 India
Time-
10AM to 9 PM
Musical Instruments
It is not uncommon to hear
the strains of a sitar, shehnai or the beats of a tabla in the streets of
Banaras. After all, this is the home of music maestros like Bismillah
Khan and Pandit Ravi Shankar. Not only did these pioneers give Varanasi a
distinct musical identity, their popularity spanned over international
boundaries, bringing scores of music enthusiasts here to learn instruments.
Classes apart, the city is famous for handmade instruments. You can find
several shops along Bengali Tola.
Overall my shopping experience at Banaras is nice. I think Banaras is a paradise for Shopping. Without Shopping your tour won't be complete. I would like to say whenever you come to Banaras visit this place. I hope you will enjoy doing shopping.
Dr. Mayank Chandrakar is a writer also. My first book "Ayurveda Self Healing: How to Achieve Health and Happiness" is available on Kobo and Instamojo. You can buy and read.
For Kobo-
https://www.kobo.com/search?query=Ayurveda+Self+Healing
The second Book "Think Positive Live Positive: How Optimism and Gratitude can change your life" is available on Kobo and Instamojo.
https://www.instamojo.com/@mchandrakargc
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