Weaving
'The most extravagant Banarasi saris use silk and gold-wrapped silk yarn with supplementary weft brocade
Varanasi has several small cottage industries, including producting of Banarasi saris, which are a regional type of sari made from silk. The city also produces carpets and handicrafts. According to some writers, Varanasi has a rather high rate of Child labour given the unorganised nature of small scale industries.
As of 2009, there are an estimated 300,000 weavers in Varansi Numerous weavers have lost work or moved elsewhere as saris become less popular in India and more imported saris impact the market.
Varanasi saris are adorned with intricate designs and zari embellishments making it popular during traditional functions and weddings. Earlier, the embroidery on sarees were often done with threads of pure gold. In 2009, weaver associations and cooperatives together secured Geographical Indication (GI) rights for ‘Banaras Brocades and Sarees’.
Agriculture
Varanasi produces large quantities of langra apple, which are variety developed in the area. Banarasi paan (betel leaf) and khoa (a milk product) are popular, and the related small-scale industries employ many people.
Manufacturing
Indian Railways runs a major diesel locomotive factory in Varanasi, Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW). BHEL, a large power equipment manufacturer, also runs a plant here.
According to Macaulay, Varanasi was the "city which, in wealth, population, dignity and sanctity was among the foremost in Asia". He described the commercial importance saying "from the looms of Benaras went forth the most delicate silks that adorned the halls of St. James and of Versailles
