Frequently Asked Questions About Banarasi Fabrics

Q1. What makes Banarasi silk authentic, and how can I tell?

A1. Authentic Banarasi silk is woven in Varanasi (Banaras) by master weavers using pure silk warp and silk plus zari weft, on either traditional pit looms (handloom) or jacquard. Look for irregular weave float on the reverse side, real metallic zari (not synthetic film), and a Geographical Indication tag where applicable. Saroj sources directly from Banaras weaving clusters.

Q2. How much does Banarasi brocade fabric cost per metre?

A2. Saroj's Banarasi brocade fabric starts from Rs.956 per metre (currently 25% off Rs.1,274) for the base catalog. Premium handloom-woven Banarasi pure silk reaches Rs.2,675 per metre. Wedding-grade Banarasi sarees in fabric form (5.5m) cost Rs.6,000 to Rs.15,000.

Q3. What's the difference between Banarasi brocade and Banarasi silk?

A3. Banarasi silk is the broader category, any silk woven in Banaras tradition. Banarasi brocade specifically refers to Banarasi silk with raised zari and metallic motifs woven into the fabric. All Banarasi brocade is Banarasi silk, but not all Banarasi silk is brocade (e.g., plain Banarasi katan is silk without brocade work).

Q4. Can Banarasi fabric be used for outfits other than sarees?

A4. Absolutely. Banarasi fabric makes stunning lehengas (skirt panels and choli), sherwanis (especially in maroon and gold), Indo-western jackets, dupatta sets, blouses, and home decor (cushion covers, table runners). Saroj's Banarasi catalog is sold by the metre to support all these applications.

Q5. How should I store Banarasi silk fabric to prevent damage?

A5. Wrap Banarasi silk in soft white muslin cloth — never plastic, which traps moisture. Store flat in a cool, dry cupboard, refolding every 6 months to prevent permanent crease lines. Add cloves or silica gel to deter insects. Avoid direct sunlight, which fades dyes and dulls zari.

Q6. Is the Banarasi silk fabric on saroj.in handloom or power loom?

A6. Saroj's Banarasi range includes both handloom and jacquard (power loom) variants. Handloom Banarasi is identified by minor irregularities and softer hand-feel — these command premium pricing. Power loom Banarasi offers consistent patterning at more accessible prices. Each product page specifies the weave type.

Q7. Do you ship Banarasi silk fabric outside India?

A7. Yes, Saroj ships Banarasi silk worldwide. Most international destinations receive in 7 to 10 working days. Shipping is calculated by destination, weight, and mode. Pan-India shipping is free above Rs.499. Email contact@saroj.in for international quotes before placing an order.