Indian Silk — Prabir Mitra

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This is a documentation of the traditional labour-intensive method of making of “Benarasi Silk-Sarees” (unique to Varanasi, India) that dates back several centuries. My journey started with documenting the formation of cocoons which are allowed to mature in bamboo spirals (“Chandrika”). Cocoons are then boiled to extract threads which are dyed prior to sun-drying. Hand-drawn patterns based on traditional designs are woven with the help of ‘cut-out-codes’. The best sarees are then embroidered and bejewelled prior to finishing. Despite the availability of alternate outfits and changing fashion preferences of women, Benarasi Sarees still maintain their worldwide demand.