Hand Woven Khasi Dhara vs. Benaras Dhara

In recent years the Benaras Dhara has met the demands of the market, but this is different from the traditional Dhara. It is also made of finely woven silk decorated with intricate designs and because of these imprints they are relatively heavier and louder in design. This contrasts with the simpler traditional Dhara that is handwoven, is plainer, and tend to have the patterns based at the border. Unfortunately, because the handwoven co-operatives such as Nongtluh in the Ri-Bhoi district tend to be few and far between and cannot meet the great demand, so the Benaras Dhara that is manufacted rather than handwoven has surpassed in production volume.

The colours used for dying the silk are taken from plants and even onions depending on the season. These natural colours reveal the rich diversity of resources that, when respected and used in accordance with the cycles of nature can positively influence the eco-system. As these colours are not synthetic, there isn't any chance rivers, plants and animals being polluted when these clothes are washed. Furthermore there is less likelihood of these colours to run when it is fixed by natural iron ore.