What Is Mashru Silk?

Mashru Silk is a centuries-old fabric with a fascinating dual nature — smooth, lustrous silk on the outside, and soft, breathable cotton on the inside. Traditionally woven in Gujarat and embraced in Banarasi handlooms, Mashru combines the luxury of silk with the comfort of cotton, making it an enduring choice for women who want elegance without compromise. At Silken Saga, our Mashru Silk Banarasi Sarees celebrate this balance of beauty and practicality.


Key Characteristics of Mashru Silk

  • Dual composition: Silk face for shine, cotton back for comfort.
  • Unique weave: Satin structure that gives a rich fall and glossy drape.
  • Lightweight & breathable: Easy to wear for long hours.
  • Vibrant colours: Absorbs dyes beautifully for deep, striking shades.

Mashru Silk vs. Other Banarasi Fabrics

  • Katan Silk → pure silk, more formal and heavier in look.
  • Dola Silk → semi-silk blend, soft with a subtle sheen.
  • Georgette Banarasi → lightweight, sheer, and flowy.
  • Mashru Silk → sits in the middle: lustrous like silk but breathable like cotton, perfect for both festive wear and day-long comfort.

When to Wear Mashru Silk Sarees

  • Ideal for festivals and family gatherings where you want comfort without losing grandeur.
  • Works beautifully for office celebrations, pujas, and daytime weddings.
  • Its breathable cotton base makes it especially suited for warmer climates like much of India.

Styling Tips

  • Pair with a contrasting silk blouse to bring out the sheen.
  • Opt for minimal jewellery during the day, and statement pieces like jhumkas or chokers for festive evenings.
  • Its natural fall makes it easy to drape — perfect for women who find heavy silks difficult to carry.

Care Tips for Mashru Silk

  • Dry clean recommended to maintain sheen and fabric integrity.
  • Store folded in a muslin cloth, away from direct sunlight.
  • Avoid spraying perfume directly on the saree to prevent stains.

Explore our Mashru Silk collection

Read our blog on Mashru Silk and Banarasi weaves 

Learn about other fabrics: Katan Silk, Dola Silk

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Mashru Silk pure silk?
No, Mashru is traditionally a blend of silk (front) and cotton (back), giving both shine and breathability.
Are Mashru Silk Banarasi sarees comfortable for summer?
Yes, the cotton backing makes them much more breathable than pure silks, perfect for warmer weather.
Does a Mashru Silk saree come with a blouse piece?
Yes, most Silken Saga Mashru Silk sarees include a matching blouse piece.
How do I maintain my Mashru Silk saree?
Dry clean after use, and store in a cool, dry place wrapped in muslin.

Want to know more about Dola Silk?