The Craft Story: Shikargah Saree

What is a Shikargah Saree?
The word Shikargah comes from Persia and translates directly to "hunting scene." True to its name, a Shikargah saree is a highly detailed Banarasi weave that depicts jungle scenes and royal hunts. The craft is a beautiful blend of traditional Varanasi weaving techniques and Persian artistry.

Mughal Origins and History
Shikargah weaves flourished during the Mughal era. Drawing inspiration from royal courtrooms and hunting expeditions, weavers in Varanasi began moving beyond standard patterns to weave lively jungle scenes into the fabric of the sarees.

Distinctive Animal Motifs
While most traditional sarees rely heavily on floral or geometric designs, the Shikargah weave focuses primarily on animal motifs.

• Key Figures: The sarees prominently feature lions, deer, horses, peacocks, and elephants.
• Intricate Layout: These animal figures are carefully mingled with climbing vines and delicate bel butas to adorn the drape.
• Craftsmanship: Every single motif is woven into the saree with extreme precision. Due to this high level of intricacy and the time required by the weavers, the Shikargah is one of the costlier Banarasi sarees available.

How to Style a Shikargah Saree
Because the Shikargah saree itself is very intricate and features busy patterns, balancing the overall look is important.

• The Blouse: A plain silk blouse is a classy choice that lets the saree stand out. Alternatively, depending on the color of the zari, a golden or silver badla blouse can also be styled beautifully for a richer look.
• Neckline Choices: Collared necklines, zero necklines, and sweetheart necklines are the best options. You can easily choose the right neckline based on the type of jewelry you plan to wear with the outfit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does Shikargah mean?
The word Shikargah originates from Persia and literally translates to "hunting scene."

What motifs are used in a Shikargah saree?
Unlike other sarees that use floral or geometric motifs, Shikargah sarees primarily feature animal motifs like lions, deer, horses, peacocks, and elephants, carefully mingled with vines and intricate bel butas.

Why is the Shikargah saree expensive?
It is one of the costlier Banarasi sarees because of the high level of intricacy and craftsmanship involved. Every single motif is woven along the saree with extreme precision.

Which blouse looks best with a Shikargah saree?
Since the saree has very intricate and busy patterns, a plain silk blouse looks very classy. Depending on the zari color, a golden or silver badla blouse can also be styled beautifully.