A Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree is a luxurious and elegant traditional Indian saree, which is a variation of the famous Banarasi saree, known for its intricate designs and regal appeal. The Chand Tara design, paired with Kora weaving, makes it a special piece, highly regarded for its beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance.
Key Features of a Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree:
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Chand Tara Design:
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The term Chand Tara refers to the moon (Chand) and star (Tara) motifs that are intricately woven into the fabric, often using zari (gold or silver thread).
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These Chand Tara patterns are delicate, celestial-themed designs that represent the moon and stars, often symbolizing beauty, grace, and timelessness. These motifs are woven into the saree, typically in a repetitive pattern across the body or on the pallu (end portion of the saree).
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The motifs are usually crafted with zari threads, giving them a shimmering and opulent effect, which adds a touch of elegance and regality to the saree.
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Kora Weaving:
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Kora is a type of raw silk that is woven into the fabric of a Banarasi saree. It is known for its slightly coarse texture compared to regular silk, giving the saree a more traditional, earthy look while still maintaining the richness and sheen of silk.
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The Kora silk fabric has a slightly matte finish, which allows the Chand Tara motifs to stand out beautifully. The contrast between the texture of the fabric and the shimmer of the zari work makes the saree look even more refined and sophisticated.
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Kora weaving is a labor-intensive process, often done by hand, which gives each saree a distinct, artisanal quality.
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Banarasi Weaving Tradition:
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Banarasi sarees originate from Varanasi (formerly known as Banaras), a city famous for its silk weaving tradition. These sarees are known for their elaborate zari work, intricate floral and geometric motifs, and luxurious feel.
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Banarasi weaving techniques like Kadhwa, Jangla, and Tanchoi are often used in these sarees. The weaving of Chand Tara motifs requires a lot of precision and skill, and this makes each Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
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Design and Motifs:
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The Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree features the celestial moon and star patterns (Chand Tara) prominently in the weave. These motifs are often woven across the body of the saree or concentrated on the pallu, creating a stunning focal point.
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The zari work used to craft the Chand Tara motifs adds a glamorous touch, with the metallic threads catching the light and creating a shimmering effect, enhancing the ethereal beauty of the moon and star designs.
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The saree may also include additional traditional Banarasi motifs like floral vines, paisleys, geometric patterns, or baluchari designs along the borders and pallu, giving it a layered, rich aesthetic.
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Color Palette:
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Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Sarees come in a wide variety of colors, from classic shades like ivory, cream, deep red, and maroon, to bold jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue, and mustard yellow.
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The color choice is often designed to complement the intricate zari motifs, with traditional colors like golden, silver, or copper zari providing a luminous contrast to the base fabric.
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The Chand Tara motifs, often in contrasting metallic hues, can appear more pronounced when set against a rich-colored background, allowing the motifs to shine through beautifully.
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Occasions:
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The Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree is perfect for grand celebrations and events such as weddings, festivals, religious ceremonies, and traditional gatherings.
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Its regal and luxurious appearance makes it ideal for brides, bridesmaids, or special guests at a wedding, as the saree's traditional design and opulent appearance exude a sense of elegance and sophistication.
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The shimmering Chand Tara motifs also make it suitable for nighttime events, where the metallic threads catch the light and create an ethereal glow.
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Care and Maintenance:
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As with all Banarasi sarees, the Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree requires gentle care to preserve the delicate fabric and intricate work.
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Dry cleaning is recommended to maintain the zari work and avoid any damage to the fabric.
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When storing the saree, fold it carefully or hang it to avoid unnecessary creases. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent the colors from fading.
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The saree should be handled delicately to ensure that the fine threads and motifs are not damaged.
Why It's Special:
The Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree stands out for its beautiful blend of traditional craftsmanship and celestial-inspired designs. The combination of Kora silk, Banarasi weaving techniques, and the intricate Chand Tara motifs makes this saree a striking choice for those who appreciate cultural heritage and artistry. The shimmering zari work and earthy texture of the Kora silk add depth and sophistication to the design, creating a unique and timeless garment that is perfect for special occasions.
In Summary:
The Chand Tara Kora Banarasi Saree is a true testament to the timeless beauty of traditional Banarasi weaving, with the Chand Tara celestial motifs bringing a sense of ethereal elegance to the saree. The Kora silk adds an organic texture to the fabric, while the intricate zari work enhances the beauty of the design. Perfect for weddings, festivals, and other special occasions, this saree offers a luxurious and sophisticated look that blends traditional artistry with celestial charm.