I love to claim I am a Bengali Saree-Lover in Canada!
In the vast tapestry of India’s rich cultural heritage, the traditional attire of sarees holds a special place. Each region boasts its unique weaving techniques, designs, and motifs, but there is something exceptionally captivating about the timeless elegance of Bengal’s sarees.
From the mesmerizing Dhakai Jamdani to the resplendent Baluchari and the vibrant Tant, Bengal’s sarees have charmed connoisseurs of fashion and art for generations. In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore the indomitable love for Bengal’s sarees, delving into their history, craftsmanship, and enduring allure.
I was born in Bengal who grew up in Bengal. Got married in Bengal
Became a mother in Bengal.
Professionally, when I flew out of India for Toronto, I was the Head of the Department in Asansol Engineering College of West Bengal University of Technology, again in Bengal.
And all the while I ONLY wore Sarees, as most professors do in India.
No jeans no dresses….that completely out of question!!
So it is not an exaggeration to say I breathed ONLY Sarees.
When I moved countries, I could not leave them back. I dragged most of them to Toronto. As an immigrant woman here, I loved to flaunt what is a rich heritage of my country. Bengal’s love affair with sarees dates back to ancient times. The region’s fertile land and proximity to various trade routes fostered a flourishing textile industry, making it a hub for silk and cotton production. The earliest references to Bengal’s sarees can be found in the scriptures and epics, where they are praised for their beauty and craftsmanship. Over the centuries, Bengal’s weavers honed their skills, culminating in the creation of several iconic weaves. The Dhakai Jamdani, The Baluchari, The Tant, being just some of them.
And I love to wear them during the weekends (claiming my deep sareelove) when I don’t have to student-face in the Campus here. So much so that I went ahead to create a Canadian Sareeista Group in FaceBook that has over 2K members now. All celebrating Sarees!
Today, whether it is a Tangail a Kantha a Baluchari or a Swarnachuri or just a simple cottons, I take equal pride in wearing them as a Bengali settled in Canada.
My love for Bengal’s sarees goes beyond just the allure of their exquisite craftsmanship; it reflects a deep connection to the region’s artistic and cultural heritage. These sarees are not merely garments; they are living stories that have withstood the test of time, carrying the legacy of Bengal’s skilled weavers and artisans. Every time I drape myself in the splendor of Dhakai Jamdani, Baluchari, or Tant sarees or a Bishnupuri Silk saree I become part of a timeless tradition, celebrating elegance, art, and the enduring charm of Bengal’s sarees.
I take an extra ounce of pride today because there has been a growing appreciation for Bengal’s handmade and sustainable textiles, leading to a revival of Bengal’s traditional weaving techniques. Various initiatives and organizations have come forward to support and empower local artisans, ensuring the preservation of these age-old crafts. By embracing handwoven sarees from Bengal, one not only embraces exquisite fashion but also contributes to the preservation of a living heritage.
