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The self-cleaning concept has drawn a lot of attention due to its unique characteristics and wide range of potential applications in a variety of sectors. In the present study, the photocatalytic properties of TiO2 nanoparticles for achieving the self-cleaning ability on banana fabric were explored using sol–gel technology. Highly stable TiO2 nano sols were developed using a simple, rapid, and relatively low acid content process at low temperatures. Pad-dry-cure method was used to obtain a homogeneous coating of TiO2 nano sols on the surface of the banana fabric. The coated fabrics were characterised using techniques like Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, and UV–Vis Spectroscopy. After light irradiation, the photocatalytic activity was determined by stain degradation of different stains by analysing colour difference and K/S. Anatase TiO2 nanoparticles were formed in good concentration exhibiting photocatalytic activities shown by the photodegradation of Coffee and Rhodamine B stains on exposure to light. Overall, the proposed method can incorporate titanium dioxide functionalization of a new class of cellulosic-based materials, i.e. banana fabrics intended for self-cleaning applications, in a stable, rapid, cost-effective, and ecologically acceptable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]