India is known as the land of traditions, colors, and culture and one of the most beautiful symbols of this heritage is the saree. From the royal Banarasi to the simple yet elegant Kerala Kasavu, each state in India has its own version of the saree, woven with history, culture, and artistry.
In this article, we’ll explore 23 traditional types of sarees from different states of India, their origin, unique features, and why they are cherished even today.
23 Traditional Sarees of India
For Indian women, a saree is not just fabric—it’s an identity, a tradition, and a celebration of craftsmanship. Each saree tells a story: of the weavers, the culture of its region, and the occasions it adorns. Many sarees are even passed down generations, symbolizing continuity of heritage.
1. Banarasi Saree (Uttar Pradesh)
Famous worldwide, Banarasi sarees are made in Varanasi and are known for their intricate zari work and Mughal-inspired designs. Brides often choose Banarasi sarees for weddings due to their royal appeal.
2. Kanjeevaram Saree (Tamil Nadu)
Woven from the purest mulberry silk, Kanjeevaram sarees are known for their durability and temple-inspired borders. They are often gifted to brides as a symbol of prosperity.
3. Paithani Saree (Maharashtra)
Originating from Aurangabad, Paithani sarees are famous for their peacock and lotus motifs. The unique handwoven silk and zari make them a treasured possession.
4. Patola Saree (Gujarat)
Made in Patan, Patola sarees are woven with the double ikat technique, giving them a vibrant, geometric design. Traditionally, they were worn by royal families.
5. Bandhani Saree (Rajasthan & Gujarat)
Popular during festivals, Bandhani sarees are made using the tie-and-dye method, resulting in colorful dotted patterns.
6. Chanderi Saree (Madhya Pradesh)
Chanderi sarees are lightweight, sheer, and perfect for summer wear. They are known for their golden zari and floral motifs.
7. Kota Doria Saree (Rajasthan)
These sarees are made of cotton and silk with a signature checkered pattern, making them breathable and elegant.
8. Sambalpuri Saree (Odisha)
Sambalpuri sarees use the ikat weaving technique, with motifs inspired by nature, temples, and tribal art.
9. Bomkai Saree (Odisha)
Also called Sonepuri saree, this traditional weave has intricate thread work and is often worn on religious occasions.
10. Tant Saree (West Bengal)
The everyday saree of Bengali women, Tant is made from handloom cotton, making it light and comfortable.
11. Baluchari Saree (West Bengal)
Baluchari sarees narrate stories through their pallus, often depicting mythological scenes woven in silk threads.
12. Assamese Mekhela Chador (Assam)
The Mekhela Chador is Assam’s pride, woven from silk varieties like Muga and Eri, known for their golden sheen and softness.
13. Phulkari Saree (Punjab)
Although Phulkari is more popular in dupattas, sarees with vivid floral embroidery are also worn, especially at weddings.
14. Kasavu Saree (Kerala)
Kerala’s traditional saree is cream-colored with a golden border, usually worn during Onam and Vishu festivals.
15. Ilkal Saree (Karnataka)
Ilkal sarees are woven with cotton and silk, identified by their distinctive pallu woven separately and then attached.
16. Mysore Silk Saree (Karnataka)
Known for their smooth texture and minimal zari work, Mysore silk sarees are simple yet regal.
17. Gadwal Saree (Telangana)
Gadwal sarees are unique because they combine cotton body with silk borders, making them ideal for both daily wear and festive occasions.
18. Pochampally Saree (Telangana)
Also woven using the ikat technique, Pochampally sarees feature bold geometric designs in contrasting colors.
19. Dhakai Jamdani Saree (Bangladesh & West Bengal)
One of the finest muslin sarees, Jamdani sarees are sheer and decorated with intricate handwoven motifs.
20. Leheriya Saree (Rajasthan)
Created using a special tie-dye method, Leheriya sarees have wavy patterns resembling ripples of water.
21. Kantha Saree (West Bengal)
These sarees are hand-embroidered with simple running stitches, often depicting nature and folk tales.
22. Nagpuri Saree (Chhattisgarh)
Handwoven cotton sarees of Chhattisgarh, decorated with tribal patterns, are both eco-friendly and elegant.
23. Manipuri Saree (Manipur)
Known as Innaphi and Phanek, Manipuri sarees are made from fine silk and cotton, often worn during cultural festivals.
Expert Insights on Saree Popularity
According to textile experts, sarees are not just regional attire but also symbols of sustainable fashion. Unlike fast fashion, handloom sarees take days or even months to weave, ensuring durability and artistry.
Many fashion designers in India and abroad are reviving traditional sarees, making them a part of modern wardrobes. For example, Bollywood celebrities often flaunt Banarasi or Kanjeevaram sarees on red carpets, giving these traditional weaves global exposure.
How to Choose the Right Saree
When selecting a saree, consider:
- Occasion: Choose Banarasi, Kanjeevaram, or Paithani for weddings; light cotton sarees like Tant or Chanderi for daily wear.
- Climate: Cotton sarees are best for summer, while silks are perfect for winter weddings.
- Maintenance: Handloom sarees need gentle care to last for decades.
The 23 types of sarees in India beautifully reflect the diversity of Indian culture. From the golden Kasavu of Kerala to the artistic Baluchari of Bengal, every saree is a masterpiece.
Whether you are a bride, a collector, or someone who simply loves Indian tradition, these sarees are timeless treasures worth celebrating. Wearing them is not just about fashion it’s about carrying forward centuries of culture and craftsmanship.