The timeless charm of Bangladeshi silk
Over the centuries, silk has become an integral part of our history and culture. From the luxurious Rajshahi Silk to the versatile Tussar, Dhupian, Endi, and the legendary Muslin Silk, a diverse range of silk fabrics continues to thrive in the market
Silk has been a part of Bangladesh's cultural fabric for centuries, with a rich history dating back to ancient times. The Bengal region, known for its skilled artisans, eventually became an important centre for silk production, particularly during the Mughal era.
The legacy of Bengali silk is embedded in the famous Dhakai muslin, a fabric so fine it could be pulled through a ring. While Muslin's reign has faded, silk continues to thrive, especially in Rajshahi, shaping the country's textile industry today.
Silk is more than just fabric. It is a part of our culture, something to share and pass down. What's truly special about silk is how it has become a part of our everyday lives. It's no longer just reserved for grand occasions but also casual gatherings, with lightweight sarees, scarves, or even headbands adding a touch of elegance.
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It's remarkable how something so deeply rooted in history adapts to modern life, making it both meaningful and practical.
Sopura Silk is a name known by all when it comes to authentic, high-quality Bangladeshi silk. Manufactured in Rajshahi, the heart of the country's silk industry, they offer a stunning collection that blends tradition with elegance.
At Sopura Silk, Mahbub Alam, a seller at Sopura, introduces us to Dhupian Silk, a fabric that carries a charm all its own. Its uneven, slightly coarse surface, which comes from the natural weaving process, sets it apart. This is a thick fabric with a rustic charm that feels luxurious.
Priced at around Tk1,150 per yard, the beauty of Dhupian Silk lies in its dual-tone effect, where the fabric shimmers in different shades depending on the light.
It's lightweight and breathable, making it a favourite for both traditional and modern outfits.
He mentions that this fabric is mostly popular for men's waistcoats, even Punjabis due to its sturdy yet luxurious quality, which makes it ideal for tailored garments. The subtle shine in the fabric makes it a go-to choice for individuals who are looking for something unique.
Continuing with the range of silks, Endi Silk is another highlight at Sopura Silk. Known for its smooth, matte finish, it gives it a minimalistic, trendy look, perfect for those who enjoy keeping it simple yet fashionable.
Endi Silk is priced at around Tk890 per yard, making it an affordable yet premium fabric choice. the price of ready-made sarees can vary, starting from a minimum of Tk4,000 depending on the design and any extra details added.
While Endi Silk is softer and smoother than Dhupian Silk, the key difference is its finish. Dhupian has a glossy, shiny texture that gives it a more luxurious, eye-catching look, while Endi Silk has a matte finish. However, both fabrics are ideal for sarees, salwar suits, and men's kurtas making it the perfect choice for both formal occasions and everyday wear.
Khut, a popular fashion brand in the country, has also started using Endi Silk in their collections ranging from a minimum of Tk10,000 to even Tk13,000 as they have embroidered work on their shari endi silk shari. By including this fabric in both traditional and contemporary designs, Khut shows how versatile Endi Silk is as it seems to strike the perfect balance between elegance and practicality.
Muslin Silk is another option to consider. It's priced at around Tk420 per yard, making it one of the more affordable silk options. Known for its lightweight texture, Muslin Silk is incredibly soft and breathable, which makes it perfect for warmer climates or long wear. It's often chosen for its comfort and refined look, especially during the summer season. Due to its lightweight texture, it also makes the perfect canvas for artists to get creative.
Rajib Hassan, another seller at Sopura Silk, states that this is the most popular fabric used to make hand-painted sharis. As a result, the price of these sharis automatically increases threefold. For example, Aarong sells muslin sharis that are hand-painted, brush-painted, and even embroidered, which can make them quite expensive.
According to Ayra Amin, an employee of Aarong, the minimum price of these kind of muslin sharis can start from Tk6,000 and can increase to up to even Tk26,000-Tk36,000 depending on the amount of work done on them.
One of the most popular types of fabric at Sopura is Rajshahi Silk, also known as Balaka Silk or Sopura Silk. Mahbub explains that this fabric is a favourite for many, especially for special occasions, due to its fine quality. At Tk950 per yard, it is a great option for special occasions such as weddings and receptions.
When it comes to ready-made sarees, the prices can vary significantly. Rajshahi Silk sarees typically range from Tk6,000 to Tk 30,000. The price difference is mainly due to the amount of embroidery or embellishments added to the fabric. More intricate designs with heavy embroidery tend to be priced higher.
Moving on to Tussar Silk, another beautiful variety, the ready-made sarees made from this fabric typically range from Tk13,000 to Tk15,000. The fabric is not too shiny, lightweight yet durable, and its breathable nature adds to its comfort, making it a popular choice for people who want luxury along with comfort with practicality.
Despite its rich heritage, the Bangladeshi silk industry is facing some tough challenges. Mahbub Alam explains, "The rise of synthetic fabrics has reduced the demand for traditional silk. People are choosing cheaper, man-made fabrics over natural silk, and this is making it harder for the weavers who rely on traditional methods to earn a living"
However, there's some hope. Local entrepreneurs and fashion brands are stepping in to help. They're giving the industry a much-needed push by introducing new designs, improving quality, and even creating modern takes on traditional silks.
This approach has made silk more attractive to younger generations who seek clothing that blends tradition with modern trends. From elegant gowns to casual kurtas, these designs not only boost the demand for Bangladeshi silk but also help it stay relevant in today's fashion scene.
