Murshidabad, West Bengal

Baluchari Silk Sari

A rich handwoven silk sari that takes its name from the village of Baluchar in Murshidabad district, where the weave flourished under the patronage of the Nawabs of Murshidabad from the 17th century. The sari is distinguished by a large, elaborately figured pallu depicting narrative scenes from epics, court life and folk tales, woven with a complex extra-weft technique that once took about a week to complete. It was granted a Geographical Indication in 2011 and remains one of the most celebrated heritage weaves of Bengal. Buyers get a museum-worthy narrative sari; authentic handwoven pieces command premium prices.

Typical price: ₹8000-75000

Buying tip: Buy only from looms or retailers that can show the handwoven extra-weft pallu and a GI-tag label; machine-made 'Baluchari prints' are widely sold at a fraction of the price. Expect to pay a genuine premium — authentic handwoven pieces are counted in the tens of thousands of rupees.