National Handloom Day 2024: 10 must-have handloom sarees from across India

India will celebrate the 10th National Handloom Day on August 7. On this day in 1905, India formally launched the Swadeshi movement in Kolkata. This movement emphasized India’s commitment to accepting products made in India by our local artisans rather than buying products manufactured and exported from Britain. This movement was devised to punch a hole in the pockets of Great Britain, who were killing the local manufacturing business to promote their own cheap products. Handlooms have been a symbol of resistance and perseverance of Indian culture that refused to die in the face of modern and cheaper products. This year, the theme of National Handloom Day 2024 focuses on the integration of technology and innovation to promote the Indian handloom industry. On this occasion, we have curated a list of handloom sarees that are a must-have in your wardrobe. These sarees are not only a cultural symbol but also ooze luxury and elegance.

India's rich tradition of sarees reflects its vibrant cultural heritage and artistry. Each region boasts unique weaving techniques and materials, from the luxurious Kanjivaram silk sarees of Tamil Nadu to the intricate Banarasi silk sarees of Uttar Pradesh. The saree's intricate designs and embellishments often tell stories of mythology, history, and regional craftsmanship, making each piece a testament to India's diverse artistic legacy. This traditional garment, celebrated for its elegance and versatility, continues to be a symbol of grace and identity, cherished in both everyday wear and ceremonial occasions.

Baluchari sarees, originating in West Bengal, are characterized by elaborate work on pallus that depict mythological scenes and motifs. These sarees are spun with pure tussar silk. They are woven in three patterns: Resham Baluchari, Meenakari Baluchari, and Swarnachari.
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Called the ‘Golden Silk of Assam,’ Muga silk is well known for its natural golden sheen and durability. The fiber of the silk is very strong and is derived from semi-cultivated silkworms called Antheraea assamensis. The origin of this silk has been largely credited to the Ahom dynasty.
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This saree gets its name from the place of its origin: Bhoodan Pochampally in Telangana. The tie-dye style known as ikkat is exclusive to India, and the ikkat patterns have great color retention properties. These sarees have distinguishable geometric patterns.
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According to certain reports, the oldest documentation of Tant sarees can be traced back to the 15th century in Shantipur in the district of Nadia in West Bengal. These sarees are made with cotton and are designed for daily use. They have a distinct border with mainly paisley and floral motifs.
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Organza has been derived from ‘Organzine,’ which translates to a fabric composed of strands of stiff silk fibers. These sarees are thin and have simple weaves. These lightweight sarees have recently been in trend.

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Sambalpuri Silk sarees are handwoven sarees from the state of Odisha, India. They are renowned for their intricate and colorful designs, which are created using a tie-dyeing technique called ikat, whose yarns are dyed before they are woven.
Image Courtesy: @ethnic_odhisha_weaves

The term bandhani is derived from the Sanskrit verbal root bandh, which means “to bind or to tie.” The earliest mention of Bandhani sarees dates back to 4000 BC during the Indus Valley Civilization. It is a type of tie-dye textile that is decorated by uniquely binding the fabric to create patterns while dyeing.

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Chanderi sarees originated from the Chanderi district of Madhya Pradesh. The sarees are well known for their transparent fabric, distinctive motifs, and lightweight. They are available in three different kinds of fabrics: pure silk, Chanderi cotton, and silk cotton.

Image Courtesy: @bagru_trand_nd_traditional

Famous for its natural golden color, Tussar silk is a type of wild silk that is made from silkworms that feed on plants like Asan and Arjun. This silk is mainly produced in Jharkhand and Bihar. The fabric is extremely lightweight and feels like luxury.

Image Courtesy: @art_of_silk

Patola sarees are a type of double ikat saree that is traditionally woven by hand in the Patan region of Gujarat. The design of each saree is unique and cannot be replicated, which adds to the value of these sarees. The sarees are made with pure silk sourced from the best silkworms.

Image Courtesy: @patola_by_k.k_brothers

Tell us which is your favourite saree out of the lot!

Sarees are the ultimate ensemble for Indian women, embodying both tradition and timeless elegance. This iconic garment, which drapes gracefully around the body, is celebrated for its versatility and cultural significance. The saree's ability to be styled in myriad ways—from the classic Nivi drape to the modern lehenga style—allows women to express their individuality while honoring their heritage. With its rich array of fabrics, colors, and intricate designs, each saree tells a unique story and enhances the wearer’s grace and poise. Whether worn for grand celebrations or everyday occasions, the saree remains a symbol of Indian identity and sophistication, weaving together centuries of tradition with contemporary fashion.