A famine during the mid 16th century caused the silk weavers from Gujarat to move to Benares and started the weaving of silk and brocade in Benares.

A Banarasi sari made in Varanasi, an ancient city which is also called Benares. These sarees are among the finest saris in India and are known for their gold and silver brocade or zari, fine silk, and opulent. In terms of making,it is no longer just silk and cotton but many other yarns are blend in.