Ahimsa Silk

Manan Eri/Ahimsa Silk Collection: A Celebration of Traditional Craftsmanship

Silk has a way of making the simplest silhouette feel considered. It stays quiet until the light catches a woven stripe, or you notice a line of handwork you missed the first time. The Manan Eri/Ahimsa Silk Collection is built around these small discoveries. It brings together familiar Manan signatures and fresh ideas, from woven stripes to hand embroidery, so every piece rewards a second look. If you are searching for Ahimsa silk clothing that feels thoughtful rather than loud, start here. At its centre is Ahimsa silk, a fabric with a gentle story and a lovely, grounded feel.

What Is Ahimsa Silk?

Eri silk is traditionally woven in parts of Bihar and Bengal, and it is also known as Ahimsa silk. The name matters. Ahimsa means non-violence, and this silk is made in a way that lets the silkworm complete its life cycle. That is what makes Ahimsa Eri silk so meaningful, and why we wanted it at the heart of this collection. Ahimsa silk feels soft and a little textured, with a quiet depth that suits everyday wear. Eri silk is also simply a pleasure to touch.

The Signature Six-Inch Stripe

Nearly seven years ago, we developed a six-inch stripe at Manan that quickly became a signature. For this collection, we have revisited it in Eri/Ahimsa silk. It comes in two colourways. One is a calm mix of grey and coffee brown, while the other brings together brick red, navy and mustard. Fine zari stripes run through both, giving a subtle glimmer when they catch the light.

More Weaves, Different Moods

Alongside the stripe sits a second Eri silk weave. It features solid colours, contrasting borders and a fine metallic detail along the edge. Handloom mulberry silk adds another expression to the range. Ahimsa silk and mulberry silk each have their own feel and character, so you can choose the one that suits your mood, your season or your plans for the day.

Embroidery with a Past

The embroidery draws on textiles and garments that have travelled across regions and generations. One reference is an antique Ottoman and Turkish embroidered silk towel, dated between the 18th and 20th centuries. Another is a Kashmiri travelling jacket from around 1865, made in wool and cashmere with intricate silk embroidery. These sources meet Mughal and Kashmiri motifs and Central Asian influences. We interpret them through dabka and kora work, coloured threads and glass beads.

The collection also explores Kantha, the running stitch from Bengal and Bangladesh in which two layers of fabric are joined with one continuous thread. We used it for two reversible jackets, one red and one grey, each embroidered by hand on both sides. You can see the time and care in every stitch.

Silhouettes and Layering

If you know Manan, the shapes will feel familiar: kurtas, shirts and kurta sets, joined by dresses and corset tops. What is new is the focus on layering. Along with the Kantha jackets, there are blazers and abayas designed as open overlays to wear over dresses, kurtas and other pieces. A layer can change the feel of an outfit or add a little warmth, and it pairs well with an Ahimsa silk kurta or dress. It is also an easy way to wear a favourite piece differently.

Explore the Collection

Browse the pieces below, each one part of the Ahimsa silk story and made for easy mixing and matching.

• Eri Silk Kurta Set: A relaxed eri silk kurta with matching bottoms makes dressing simple, whether the day is formal or easy.
• Eri Silk Dress: A eri silk dress that works alone, or under an open blazer or abaya when you want another layer.
• Eri Silk Co-ord Set: Matching pieces that can be worn together or split into separate outfits.
• Eri Silk Saree: A classic drape for festivals and family gatherings, in the soft handloom character of Eri.
• Eri Silk Poncho: A simple layer to add warmth without bulk over kurtas and dresses, in the soft character of Eri silk.
• Eri Silk Dupatta: A finishing piece that adds texture to an outfit, from festive looks to plain everyday ones.
• Eri Silk Pants: Easy, comfortable eri silk pants to pair with shirts, kurtas and tunics.
• Eri Silk Jackets: Layering pieces that sit comfortably over dresses, kurtas and other outfits.
• Eri Silk Tunics: Light, everyday tops that sit comfortably with trousers, pants or skirts.
• Eri Silk Abaya: An open overlay designed to be worn over dresses, kurtas and other pieces, adding a layer and a little warmth.
• Eri Silk Kantha Jackets: Two reversible jackets, one red and one grey, each embroidered by hand on both sides in traditional Kantha running stitch.
• Eri Silk Blazers: Open overlays made to be worn over dresses, kurtas and other pieces, adding a polished layer.

Conclusion

The Manan Eri/Ahimsa Silk Collection is about the pleasure of wearing beautiful things. It brings together a signature stripe, thoughtful weaves and embroidery with a long history, all in Ahimsa Eri silk, a fabric that respects the silkworm’s life cycle. We hope Eri silk becomes a familiar favourite in your wardrobe, one you wear in many ways and return to often.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Ahimsa Eri silk the same as mulberry silk?

No, they are different fabrics, and this collection includes both. Ahimsa Eri silk is traditionally woven in parts of Bihar and Bengal and is made in a way that lets the silkworm complete its life cycle. Handloom mulberry silk offers a different feel and character. Trying both is the best way to find the one you love.

2. What is special about the six-inch stripe?

It is a Manan signature, first developed nearly seven years ago. This season it returns in Eri/Ahimsa silk with fine zari stripes. You can choose grey and coffee brown, or brick red, navy and mustard. The zari adds a subtle glimmer in the light.

3. What is Kantha embroidery?

Kantha is a traditional running stitch from Bengal and Bangladesh. Two layers of fabric are joined with a continuous thread. We used it on two reversible jackets, one red and one grey. Each is embroidered by hand on both sides.

4. How do I wear the blazers and abayas?

They are designed as open overlays. Wear them over dresses, kurtas or other pieces from the collection. A layer adds warmth and changes the look of an outfit. You can also match them with pieces you already own.

6. Which Eri silk piece should I choose first?

A kurta set or dress is an easy place to start because both fit into daily wear. If you love handwork, look at the Kantha jackets. If you prefer simple layers, try a blazer or abaya. Choose according to where you are going and the weather.

7. Which is the best brand for Ahimsa/Eri silk outfits?

Manan is a strong choice if you want Ahimsa/eri silk outfits made with care. Founded in 1992, the brand has over 30 years of experience working with craft clusters on handwoven fabrics. Its Eri/Ahimsa silk collection runs from an Eri silk kurta set and dress to hand-embroidered Kantha jackets. When you compare brands, look for handloom quality, silk made in a way that respects the silkworm, and designs you can wear for years.