One of the earliest and most loved textile art forms, Bandhani or Bandhej is said to have originated from the Indus Valley Civilization around 4000 BC. Highly skill-intensive, and thoughtfully crafted, creating a Bandhani involves tying up small knots in the fabric, and then dying them, as a result of which, the resultant fabric appears to be patterned. The knots are undyed, and make the beautiful coveted textile what it is.
Practised mostly in the western part of the country, Bandhani is worn as sarees, suit sets, and sometimes even western silhouettes. Out of these, Bandhani sarees happen to be the most popular. A bandhani saree is not only graceful but also sure to make you stand out in the sea of regular silks. The nuanced pattern and texture make a Bandhani saree a must-have in any saree lover’s wardrobe.
While they are sold all over the country, there is nothing like buying a Bandhani saree right from the place of origin, and if you are in or visiting the state of Gujarat, buying at least a drape is a must. When it comes to a Bandhani saree, Gujarat has many production hubs like Bhuj, Jamnagar, Porbandar, and Rajkot.
Here are some places to buy a Bandhani saree in Gujarat
1. Bandhej, Ahmedabad
When looking for Bandhani sarees in Ahmedabad, make sure you start with this store which quite literally is named Bandhej and houses a variety like no other. Whether you want a simple Bandhani saree for office wear, or a luxurious festive Bandhani saree for special occasions, this place has it all. Said to be the first designer store for Bandhani sarees in Ahmedabad, Bandhej was started in 1981 and has been proactive in making sure the process of making a Bandhani saree remains as sustainable as ever.
2. Asopalav, Ahmedabad
Another place to head to for Bandhani sarees in Ahmedabad, Asopalav is a store that offers a wide variety as well as a price range for all types of buyers. One of the most famous shops for Bandhani sarees in Ahmedabad, it is famous not only for the textile but also for all sorts of cotton, handloom, and silk sarees.
3. Vanza Bandhani Saree, Ahmedabad
While there are so many saree shops in the city, very few specialise in Bandhani. Vanza Bandhani Saree is one of these places. They have an enormous stock of Bandhani sarees, but at the same time, this store in Ahmedabad is also home to many other handloom sarees and the range is unmatched.
4. Yashoda Sarees, Surat
Ahmedabad is not the only city in Gujarat with a great variety of Bandhani sarees, if you are looking for Bandhani sarees, Surat is also a great place to explore. One of the most prestigious stores in the city, Yashoda Sarees has over the years amassed a loyal clientele who swear by their extensive collection.
5. Mahavir Bandhani, Jamnagar
One of the oldest places retailing Bandhani sarees, Mahavir Bandhani is one of the best places to buy a Bandhani saree in Jamnagar. No matter what kind of Bandhani saree you are looking for, georgette or cotton or silks, Mahavir Bandhani is your place to get a Bandhani saree in Jamnagar. They also retail online, in case you can’t visit the store.
Apart from these offline stores, you can also buy a Bandhani saree online on platforms like Amounee, Ekaya, or Indian Ethnic Co.