The Baluchari sari traces its origins to 500 years ago and in west Bengal. The name came into existence because the weaving of these sarees started in a small village called Baluchar in Murshidabad district of west Bengal. The word Baluchari itself means sandy river bank – referring that the village was on the banks of a river: in this case the Bhagirathi. Due to natural calamities, the weaving set up was moved to Bishnupur and grew tremendously during the british rule. The sarees are known for their intricate patterns and handwork on them.