Chikankari
Kairi Chikankari Sari
“An exquisite handwoven Banarasi sari features the Banarasi jamdani weaving technique, inspired by the traditional jamdani weaving of Dhaka.”
The silk fabric base is brocaded with extra wefts (pattern threads) made of silk yarns, both plain and those entwined with fine gold wire, giving it a glittery touch. The motifs are neatly clipped at the back, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship.
The body of the sari is adorned with a dense polka-dot (duria) pattern enhanced with touches of gold zari, endowing the fabric with a soothing shine and an opulent look. Additionally, the sari boasts two large kairi (paisley) butas woven at the corners where the pallu intersects with the border (koniya), the most attractive feature of the jamdani sari, enhancing its traditional charm and elegance.
Mango or cypress; eternal fertility and life. Identified across the body butis and border of this object.
Open motif entryContinuity; the rhythm of nature. Identified across the creeping borders of this object.
Open motif entryCosmic order; mathematical harmony in weave. Identified across the woven ground of this object.
Open motif entryIn supplementary weft technique, the weaver inserts an extra weft yarn — usually metallic zari, sometimes contrasting silk — only along the rows where pattern is required. The result is a brocade: pattern raised above ground, while the base cloth remains structurally complete on its own. This single technique underlies the Banarasi, Paithani, Jamdani, Bomkai and Baluchari traditions — but each has codified its own grammar.