Introduction
Located in Gariahat, Kolkata, Adi Dhakeshwari Bastralaya is one of the city’s oldest and most iconic saree showrooms. Established in 1907, it has stood as a cultural beacon for over a century, celebrated for its Tant, Jamdani, Baluchari, and silk sarees. For heritage travelers, Adi Dhakeshwari offers an authentic journey into Bengal’s weaving traditions that have adorned generations of Bengali households.
History & Legacy
- Founded in 1907 in Dhaka (then undivided Bengal), the store moved to Kolkata in 1947 after Partition.
- Over the decades, it became a household name, especially for Durga Puja shopping and Bengali weddings.
- The brand carries with it the legacy of Dhaka’s weaving heritage, from which Bengal’s Jamdani tradition evolved.
- Today, Adi Dhakeshwari continues to uphold its century-old reputation as a guardian of Bengal handlooms.
Craftsmanship & Saree Collections
- Tant Sarees: Everyday lightweight cotton sarees, vibrant and practical for Bengal’s climate.
- Jamdani Sarees: Intricately woven masterpieces, carrying forward Dhaka’s legacy of delicate motifs.
- Baluchari Silks: Rich silk sarees with woven pallus depicting mythological stories, a heritage craft of Bishnupur.
- Garad Sarees: White silks with red borders, traditionally worn during pujas.
- Bridal Sarees: Includes Banarasi silks alongside authentic Bengal weaves.
Why Visit Adi Dhakeshwari as a Heritage Tourist?
- Historic roots: Over 115 years old, with origins linked to Dhaka’s weaving legacy.
- Cultural immersion: Shopping here is a tradition during Durga Puja, weddings, and Bengali festivals.
- Authenticity guaranteed: Sarees sourced directly from Bengal’s handloom clusters.
- Heritage atmosphere: Its Gariahat showroom reflects the old-world charm of Kolkata’s cultural life.
Online Presence
- Official Website: adidhakeshwari.com
- Active online store delivering across India and internationally.
- Social media presence highlighting seasonal collections and heritage crafts.
Visitor Information
- Location: 9/2 College Street & Gariahat, Kolkata.
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM.
- Travel Tip: Pair your visit with a walk through Gariahat Market, experiencing Kolkata’s bustling street culture alongside heritage shopping.
Conclusion
Adi Dhakeshwari Bastralaya is more than a store — it is a living archive of Bengal’s weaving history. For over a century, it has been part of Kolkata’s cultural heartbeat, serving as the bridge between traditional weavers and urban families. For heritage travelers, a visit here is an opportunity to experience the soul of Bengal’s handloom legacy.