Auspicious Indian textiles that will make your Diwali extra special

By Riddhi Doshi

They say that on Dushhera, the last day of Navratri, one must start preparing for Diwali. You make sweets and namkeen, clean the house, polish your diyas, plan taash parties and choose your Diwali outfit. The outfit is always the first order of business for me. I always pick hand-made clothes made of different Indian textiles. I am a big supporter of our textiles and wearing them makes me feel good because I know my fashion choice benefits someone who has lovingly hand-made my outfit.

Plus, some of these textiles have such rich culture, tradition and history that it’s considered auspicious to wear them on a big day such as Diwali. My choice of textile this year is a Patola or a double-sided Ikat sari. What is yours? Not decided yet? Pick from these to make your Diwali all the more auspicious. 

1. Banarasi Silk

Banarasi silk, originating from the holy city of Varanasi, is one of the most sought-after fabrics for auspicious occasions. Its rich texture, intricate brocade patterns, and opulent sheen make it the perfect choice for Diwali. Traditionally woven with gold or silver zari, Banarasi sarees and lehengas symbolize grandeur and prosperity, making them ideal for the festival.

• Why It’s Auspicious: Banarasi silk is associated with wealth and luxury. Its ties to the sacred city of Varanasi further enhance its spiritual and cultural significance.

• Premium Brands:

  • Ekaya Banaras: Specializing in luxurious, handwoven Banarasi sarees, Ekaya offers contemporary yet traditional designs that make a statement. Their collections reflect intricate craftsmanship and heritage.
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  • Tilfi Banaras: Known for their classic yet innovative interpretations of Banarasi textiles, Tilfi Banaras offers an exquisite range of sarees, lehengas, and dupattas ideal for Diwali celebrations.
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2. Kanjivaram Silk

Kanjivaram silk, from Tamil Nadu, is considered one of the most auspicious textiles in India. Known for its durability, fine weaving, and use of pure mulberry silk and real gold or silver zari, Kanjivaram sarees are symbols of grace, richness, and tradition. These sarees are often passed down through generations as heirlooms.

• Why It’s Auspicious: Worn during major Hindu festivals and weddings, Kanjivaram silk sarees are believed to bring good fortune and embody the festive spirit with their vibrant colours and intricate motifs.

• Premium Brands:

  • Palam Silks: Offering a modern twist to traditional Kanjivaram sarees, Palam Silks creates contemporary designs using heritage weaves, perfect for those who want a unique look during Diwali.
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  • Kanjivaram by House of Angadi: This brand is known for its opulent and intricate Kanjivaram silk sarees, combining traditional techniques with luxurious finishes for the discerning buyer.

3. Chanderi

Chanderi silk-cotton sarees from Madhya Pradesh are known for their sheer texture, lightness, and regal appearance. Woven with gold or silver zari, Chanderi fabrics are perfect for festive occasions like Diwali. The subtle shine of these textiles, combined with motifs like peacocks, florals, and geometrical designs, adds an understated elegance to any outfit.

• Why It’s Auspicious: Chanderi textiles are often associated with royal lineage and religious ceremonies, making them a preferred choice during festivals.

• Premium Brands:

  • Raw Mango: Known for revitalizing traditional Indian textiles with modern aesthetics, Raw Mango offers a range of Chanderi sarees that blend heritage with contemporary design, making them perfect for Diwali.
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  • Anavila: Anavila’s collection of Chanderi sarees features minimalistic designs with a modern twist, offering a blend of sophistication and traditional craftsmanship.
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4. Bandhani

Bandhani, a traditional tie-dye textile from Gujarat and Rajasthan, is another textile associated with auspiciousness and festivities. The intricate patterns and bright, cheerful colors of Bandhani sarees and dupattas make them a vibrant option for Diwali celebrations. Typically made from silk or cotton, Bandhani fabrics are adorned with dots, circles, or squares, representing harmony and positivity.

• Why It’s Auspicious: Bandhani is often worn during weddings and religious festivals. The fabric’s symbolism of fertility and prosperity makes it a popular choice during Diwali.

• Premium Brands:

  • Shades of India: Known for their artisanal approach to traditional textiles, Shades of India offers premium Bandhani sarees and scarves with a modern touch, perfect for the festive season.
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  • Krishna Mehta: Specializing in luxurious Bandhani creations, Krishna Mehta’s designs bring together rich colors and intricate patterns that are ideal for festive dressing.

5. Paithani

Paithani sarees from Maharashtra are known for their opulence and rich handwoven patterns, typically featuring peacock or lotus motifs. Made from pure silk and often adorned with gold zari, Paithani sarees are synonymous with luxury and tradition. These sarees are a symbol of prosperity and are often worn during religious festivals and weddings.

• Why It’s Auspicious: Paithani sarees are considered a status symbol and are often passed down through generations, representing wealth, happiness, and blessings.

• Premium Brands:

  • Begum: Specializing in handwoven sarees, One Prêt offers a curated selection of Paithani sarees that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs.
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  • Vaya Weaving Heritage: Vaya’s Paithani sarees are a celebration of the traditional craftsmanship of Maharashtra, offering intricate weaves and luxurious textures perfect for the Diwali season.
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6. Patola

Patola silk, originating from Gujarat, is a double ikat weave that has long been revered as a symbol of wealth and luxury. The intricate, geometric patterns of Patola sarees are painstakingly created by hand, making them a prized possession for festive occasions like Diwali.

• Why It’s Auspicious: Patola sarees are associated with royal heritage and are often worn during religious festivals as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.

• Premium Brands:

  • Rajkot Patola: Known for preserving the traditional art of Patola weaving, Rajkot Patola offers exquisite sarees that reflect the rich heritage of Gujarat.
  • Gaurang Shah: Gaurang Shah’s Patola sarees are a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship, blending heritage with modern sensibilities, making them ideal for Diwali celebrations.