Collection: Santipore Saree
Santipore Sarees represent one of Bengal’s oldest handloom weaving traditions and received Geographical Indication (GI) recognition in 2008. The weaving town of Santipur in Nadia district has been an important textile centre for centuries, historically producing fine cotton fabrics that were widely traded across the Indian subcontinent. The craft flourished under Mughal patronage and later developed into a prominent weaving cluster during the colonial period.
In recent decades, the nearby weaving clusters of Phulia in Nadia district have also emerged as a centre of producing textiles closely associated with the Santipore weaving tradition. These sarees are woven using cotton yarns that produce breathable fabrics suited to the humid climate of eastern India. The weaving process involves yarn preparation, dyeing, warping and handloom weaving using traditional looms. The weaving community continues to preserve this heritage craft through generations of knowledge transmission. Textile historians recognise Santipore weaving as an important continuation of Bengal’s historic cotton weaving tradition.
From the BONGONIKETAN Studio
At BONGONIKETAN, we work closely with master artisans along with more than 20 skilled artisans who continue the tradition of Bengal’s handloom textiles. Through these collaborations we create a variety of handwoven products including pure cotton sarees, suit fabrics and other textile creations.
Our involvement with the craft begins at the very foundation of the weaving process. We work with artisans through every stage of production from yarn procurement and spinning to dyeing, weaving and final polishing ensuring that each textile reflects the authenticity of Bengal’s handloom tradition. The time required to weave a piece varies depending on the complexity of the design. Simple designs may take about one day's to weave, while more intricate patterns can require several weeks of meticulous handloom work.
Interestingly, this district holds a special place in our journey. We belong from this Nadia region and our connection with handloom weaving goes back generations through stories, traditions and a deep appreciation for the craft. Working with artisans here feels less like business and more like returning to our roots, making this weaving community truly a home setup for BONGONIKETAN.
GI Location: Nadia District, West Bengal, India
GI Registration Year: 2008
GI Source: Geographical Indications Registry, Intellectual Property India, Government of India
