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How to Identify Pure Banarasi Silk Saree?

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Since the Mughal era,Banarasi sarees have been a source of pride and an integral component of the rich Indian traditional culture. Yet recently, this market hasn't gotten its due share! These days, there are low-quality Banarasi saree imitations imported from China that compete with Indian weavers in Varanasi, the center of the Banarasi saree industry. 

Most people are unable to tell the difference between a genuine Banarasi saree and a replica. People frequently mistake the inexpensive fake Banarasi sarees made in China for real ones. An authentic Banarasi saree can cost up to 300,000 rupees, while a bogus Chinese import or a saree from Surat only costs 2,500–4,000 rupees. The living conditions of the Indian Banarasi saree weavers have suffered as a result. An investigation undertaken in 2007 revealed that about 60% of Varanasi's weaving community had suffered a setback. Looking for the best Banarasi Saree Online for this coming wedding season? Shop now with a wide range of ethnic collections adorned with beautiful zari work and in numerous amazing shades.

In actuality, many of the Banarasi sari weavers have now turned to alternative sources of income including tea shops, rickshaw driving, vegetable selling, etc. It is incredibly unjust to the entire Indian weaving community. They are harmed by the low-quality imitation Banarasi sarees sold on the Indian market.

Here are some ways to tell an authentic Banarasi sari from a fake one to prevent being scammed the next time you go shopping for one!


Banarasi silk sarees are one of the most sought-after ethnic wear in India. The intricate designs and rich texture of the fabric make it a must-have for every woman's wardrobe. However, with the growing popularity of Banarasi silk sarees, the market is flooded with fake products that are often sold as authentic ones. Therefore, it is crucial to know how to identify pure Banarasi silk sarees before making a purchase.

Here are some tips that can help you identify pure Banarasi silk sarees:

  • Look for the trademark 

The first step to identifying pure Banarasi silk sarees is to check for the trademark. The Geographical Indication (GI) tag of Banarasi silk sarees is a government-certified mark that authenticates the product's origin and quality. The GI tag is a label that bears a unique number and is sewn on the saree's edge. Make sure to look for the tag before making a purchase.

  • Inspect the fabric
  • Pure Banarasi silk sarees are made from high-quality silk, which gives them a distinct texture and shine. The fabric is soft, smooth, and lightweight, and you can easily feel the quality by touching it. The saree's pallu (the part of the saree that drapes over the shoulder) should have a different design than the rest of the saree, which is a hallmark of Banarasi silk sarees.   

  • Check out the weaving technique
  • Banarasi silk sarees are woven using a special weaving technique that involves the use of gold or silver threads. The saree's designs are created using a handloom, and each saree takes weeks or even months to complete. The weaving technique is so intricate that the saree's design is visible on both sides of the fabric. Make sure to check the saree's weave for a genuine Banarasi silk saree.

  • Look for imperfections
  • Pure Banarasi silk sarees are handwoven, which means there will always be some imperfections in the fabric. These imperfections are a hallmark of handmade sarees and add to their charm. Look for irregularities in the saree's weave, such as small knots or slight color variations, to ensure that you are getting a genuine product.

  • Ask for the price
  • Pure Banarasi silk sarees are expensive because of the high-quality silk and the intricate weaving technique used to make them. If the price of the saree seems too good to be true, it probably is. Do not hesitate to ask the seller about the price, and compare it with the market rate to avoid getting duped.

    • Look at the Reverse Side of the Saree - If you look at the reverse side of the saree, you will be able to determine whether it is genuine or not. Floats will always appear in the Warp and Weft grids of Banarasi sarees woven on the loom. It is important to make sure that machine-woven sarees have a smooth finish.

    Subsequent developments have given Banarasi sarees their unique geographic indicator (GI) protection against all Chinese and Surat-made sarees. This intellectual property right (IPR) would aid in the identification of authentic Banarasi sarees produced in the six districts of Uttar Pradesh (Varanasi, Azamgarh, Chandauli, Jaunpur, Mirzapur, and Sant Ravi Dass Nagar-Bhadohi) in India.

    The Certificate of Approved Use of the Silk Mart brand is a crucial item to look for when purchasing pure silk sarees. If you are purchasing a genuine silk sari, always demand the certificate. 


    Buy the Best Banarasi Sarees Online 

    To discern between a genuine Banarasi silk saree and a false copycat when shopping online, one must rely on product descriptions and online product photographs. These representations frequently deceive unwary customers into purchasing a saree of lower quality believing it to be an authentic Banarasi saree. Are you looking to shop the latest designer traditional sarees? Visit our website at www.iraah.store to get a glimpse of the stunning sarees that will make you fall in love with the collection.

    Use this professional checklist from IRAAH to guarantee that you only purchase authentic, heirloom-quality Banarasi sarees: 

    VALUE RANGE

    Pure Banarasi Silk sarees are relatively pricey due to the usage of premium silk and zari threads produced from gold and silver alloys. A handloom weaving project could take weeks or even months to complete. These characteristics are the reason why genuine Banarasi sarees are pricey.

    Tips to Care for Banarasi Silk Sarees

    The Banarasi should be dry cleaned and kept in a muslin cloth. Although the muslin fabric is permeable to air, moisture that could harm the saree is kept out. To keep the saree from tearing, occasionally switch the folds.


    In conclusion, identifying pure Banarasi silk sarees requires a keen eye for detail and some basic knowledge about the product. Always look for the GI tag, inspect the fabric, check the weaving technique, look for imperfections, and ask for the price to ensure that you are getting a genuine product. With these tips in mind, you can confidently purchase a beautiful Banarasi silk saree that will last you a lifetime.

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