Chikan embroidery, popularly known as Chikankari, has its roots in a Persian word 'Chakeen', which refrs to creation of delicate patterns on cloth. And when we talk about its history, it dates back to 3rd Century BC, but got most popular during the Mughal era, and till date it continues to enhance the beauty & elegance of those who adorn it.
Creation of a Chikan work (Chikankari; Hindi: चिकनकारी; Urdu: چکن کاری) piece begins with the use of one or more pattern blocks that are used to block-print a pattern on the ground fabric ( mostly white, thin, rich cotton). The embroiderer then stitches the pattern, and the finished piece is carefully washed to remove all traces of the printed pattern.
Chikankari consists of 36 different stitches, the prominent being "Bakhiya" "Fanda" "Murri" "Tepchi" "Pechni" "Ghans patti" and “Ulti Jali". Each stitch has its own beauty, and the type of cloth being used also determines which how beautiful the stitch would reflect. The beauty of each chikan embroidered item can be seen in the continued patronage given to it by Bollywood (see pics)
The best part about this whole craft is that it is only women who are the embroiderers, thereby ensuring financial independence and increased say for them in the day to day running of the household. So, when you buy a chikan embroidered article, you're not only looking more enchanting, but helping women earn livelihoods!
Chikankari consists of 36 different stitches, the prominent being "Bakhiya" "Fanda" "Murri" "Tepchi" "Pechni" "Ghans patti" and “Ulti Jali". Each stitch has its own beauty, and the type of cloth being used also determines which how beautiful the stitch would reflect. The beauty of each chikan embroidered item can be seen in the continued patronage given to it by Bollywood (see pics)
The best part about this whole craft is that it is only women who are the embroiderers, thereby ensuring financial independence and increased say for them in the day to day running of the household. So, when you buy a chikan embroidered article, you're not only looking more enchanting, but helping women earn livelihoods!
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