So if you are going to celebrate Saptami, Ashtami, Navami or Dashami this year, take a close look at 5 traditional Bengali sarees from Bengal that you would not want to miss! Besides being a festival of faiths, feasts and festivities, Durga Puja is also an exhibition of Bengali culture and craft. Dressing up in Bengali sarees cannot be replaced by anything else for this very reason! Be it the comfort of Tant or the luxury of Baluchari, Bengali traditional wear encapsulates Bengali ethos perfectly.
If there’s one saree that instantly transports you to a Bengali celebration, it’s the Tant saree. Traditionally handmade from cotton, this saree is perfect for those blistering hot Puja days. The ever-so-classic white and red border tant saree is a must-have in any Bengali woman’s festive wardrobe, especially during Durga puja. But, nowadays, tant sarees come in all shades of the rainbow! (Image Credits: Pinterest) Garad saree is a traditional drape worn by Bengalis during festivals. This traditional Bengali piece features a simple white or off-white saree with red borders and pallu, which has been worn during religious festivals and Bengali rituals. The simplicity of the Garad saree is what sets it apart. The subtle shades of the body of the saree enable the red borders to take centre stage, making it elegant, traditional, and distinct. (Image Credits: Pinterest) For those who like something a little more dramatic, the Baluchari saree offers elegance and drama to the festival wardrobe. Hailing from Bishnupur in West Bengal, this unique take on the saree is famed for its beautifully woven motifs. The motifs can be very complex and often depict themes of mythology, literature, architecture, and everyday life. The traditional Baluchari saree is woven from silk and can make fabulous evening wear for a Puja or a more formal festive gathering. (Image Credits: Pinterest) The Korial saree, which is usually connected with the red and white Bengali festive look, is yet another lovely option for celebrating the Durga Puja. This saree’s subtle body and outstanding border make it perfect for traditional events. Also, the red and white combination is recognised by most people who have seen a Bengali festive look, making it highly suitable for women who prefer less extravagant yet still ceremonial appearances. (Image Credits: Pinterest) If your puja wardrobe needs some more silk to it, consider Murshidabad silk. This type of saree is traditional to the Murshidabad region in West Bengal and showcases the state’s silk weaving heritage. Murshidabad sarees have a distinctive charm that adds to the elegance of the drape and makes the wearer look beautiful for evenings, cultural events and family gatherings. Murshidabad silk sarees are available in less ornate as well as more elaborate versions based on the weave and design. (Image Credits: Pinterest)
