PHULKARI EMBROIDERY

Phulkari, which literally translates into ‘flower work’, has a history etched in the culture of Punjab. embroidery is patterned on odhini (head scarfs), dupattas, shawls, kurtis, sarees. Phulkari work has spread its fabric from Odinis to full-length suits & sarees. So, when we say phulkari saree, it’s similar to kasuti embroidered saree or kantha embroidery saree or Kashmiri kashida.

The work Phulkari means making flowers on a fabric. The sari made with phulkari is generally heavy and comes in sparkling shades. The art of phulkari is strictly made of vibrant silk embroidery done on plain woven clothing because it reflects the art more beautifully than the printed clothing.


REGION 

The embroidery took a backseat with the division of India and Pakistan. It was never made for commercialization. Fabricated for familial customary obligations, Phulkari became famous mainly by word of mouth. For the people of Punjab, Phulkari is not just a style of embroidery. For them it is a traditional family culture.

Deeply rooted in Punjabi life before the 1947 Partition of India and Pakistan (which split the Punjab region), this tradition has become a powerful symbol of Punjabi cultural identity. From a leisure activity, it has progressed to become one of the major sources of employment for the women in Punjab.

 Phulkari is brought to the Indian Subcontinent by the migrant Jat people of Central Asia in ancient times. Techniques and patterns were not documented but transmitted by word of mouth. The tradition was associated with the Sikh heritage but was also shared with Hindus & Muslims. It has its origins in the famous love story of Heer & Ranjha (a love tale) by Waris Shah. It’s a present form and popularity goes back to 15th century. The embroideries were a mere reflection of a woman’s life and every woman had her way of representing.



SNIGDHA KAPIL

24/1424

POL SCI HONS.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog