Culture

Bangladeshi Cultural Heritage and Sustainability: Upcycling the Bararasi Saree

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Abstract

The Banarasi saree is a luxury textile deeply embedded in Bangladesih cultural heritage, traditionally woven from silk and metallic threads using handloom jacquard techniques. Pass through generations, it represents both cultural continuity and inhereent sustainability, constrasting with the extensive textile waste produced by Bangladesh's modern apparel industry. This study examines the Banarasi saree at the intersection of luxury, sustainability, and cultural preservation, with a focus on upcycling as a strategy to extend its use and relevance. Using a qualitative approach interviews were conducted with ten mother-daughter dyads across Bangladesh and the diaspora. Findings reveal six themes related to heritage preservation, sentimental value, emotional attachment, traditional fabrics, perceptions of upcycling, ethical beliefs, and support for craftspeople. Participants largely supported upcycling as a means to reduce textile wasete, preserve cultural identity, and promote social and economic sustainability while honoring traditional craftsmanship. 

Keywords: cultural preservation, sustainability, textile waste, upcycling

How to Cite:

Tarannum, S. & Howell Abolo, A. L., (2025) “Bangladeshi Cultural Heritage and Sustainability: Upcycling the Bararasi Saree”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21904