What is banana fibre fabric? Where is it made and used in India?

Banana fibre is extracted from the pseudo-stem (the trunk-like stalk) of banana plants — the same plant that produces bananas. India, as the world's largest banana producer, has significant raw material for this.

Properties:

• High tensile strength — one of the strongest natural fibres
• Lightweight and biodegradable
• Has a natural lustre similar to silk when finely processed
• Coarser grades are stiff — finer processing creates softer fabric

Production in India:

• Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Maharashtra are the primary production states
• Traditionally used for ropes, mats, and coarse fabric
• Modern processing produces fine banana silk — used for premium scarves, sarees, and accessories

Banana silk sarees: A niche but growing premium product — particularly from Tamil Nadu — marketed as sustainable luxury. Wholesale price for banana silk sarees: ₹1,500–₹6,000.