Our Story

From the ancient ghats of Banaras, where history whispers on the wind and the Ganga flows eternal, Looms & Bunkars was born. Our founder, Diksha Rai, with her roots deeply embedded in the soil of this sacred city, witnessed a silent struggle. She saw the magic woven by the hands of Banaras' weavers, the 'bunkars', and the soul they poured into each thread of the world-renowned Banarasi sarees. Yet, she also saw their hardship, the exploitation they faced, and the disconnect between their incredible artistry and the recognition and compensation they deserved.

Driven by a passion to bridge this gap, and fueled by her doctoral research into the lives of these artisans, Diksha embarked on a mission. Looms & Bunkars is the culmination of that mission – a heartfelt endeavor to connect the creators with connoisseurs, to ensure that the weaver's story is told, their art is honored, and their legacy is preserved.

Our Mission

At Looms & Bunkars, our mission is twofold. Firstly, we are dedicated to empowering the weavers of Banaras. We work directly with them to ensure they receive fair compensation for their exceptional skills and tireless dedication. We strive to create a sustainable ecosystem where their craft can flourish, and their families can thrive.

Secondly, we are committed to educating the world about the rich heritage of Banarasi handloom sarees. Each saree is not merely a garment; it is a masterpiece, a culmination of generations of knowledge, unwavering focus, and countless hours of intricate work. We want to share the story behind each weave, to reveal the artistry that has stood the test of time, and to celebrate its enduring significance in Indian culture and traditions. We invite you to join us on this journey, to experience the elegance of Banaras, and to become a part of a story that is woven in threads of gold and silver, and steeped in the soul of a city.