Tant sarees of West Bengal

Tant sarees are another form of handloom sarees from West Bengal. These don't have intricate thread work like Dhakai Jamdani or beuatiful embroideries like Kantha Sarees. But these sarees are very popular because of the bright colors used and unique color combination. 

"Tant", means thread. Tant sarees are hand loom sarees. These are manufactured in West - Bengal of India, especially in Hoogly and Mushirabad area in West Bengal and Tangail region of Bangladesh . 

Tant sarees are woven to create some stripes or motifs. The borders are woven with zari or simple threads.Here are some Tant sarees.

Traditional Tant saree

Traditional Tant saree

History: 

The industry of manufacturing Tant sarees flourished during Mughal era. The Tant weavers started weaving Mughal designs and motifs in the sarees, which  termed as Tant Jamdani. The motif weaving gave richness to the saree.But during the British rule, Tant saree manufacturing was almost destroyed.

Tant saree with motifs

Zari woven border of Tant saree

Zari woven Tant saree

Now the Tant sarees are woven by power-looms. Still the sarees have not lost the beauty and charm.Now the weavers are using different techniques like embroidery , patchwork , hand painting etc to make it more beautiful. Here is a tant saree with applique work:

Tant saree with Applique work

As I know, almost all Bengali women own Tant sarees. Tant sarees are worn during on special occasions in West Bengal. These sarees are very economical and the fabric is comfortable. These factors make Tant sarees very popular.

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