If you have an affinity for hand embroideries then the meticulous work of Chikankari is going to steal your heart. There are various notions about how Chikankari originated and became popular, one of them states that the word chikeen means creating delicate patterns on fabrics.
This mesmerizing embroidery was done earlier with white yarn and colourless muslins known as tanjeb. Nawabs of Awadh known for their tehjeeb and najakat would navigate harsh summers of northern plains using this piece of work which is pleasant in texture and eyes, yet fit for royalty and from there Chikankari took over royal wardrobes.
The mughal style dreamy marble windows carved with curvy bels(creepers) which allows light to makes it's way through , became an inspiration for jaals and butas. These are intricately worked all over with an effect of shadow which makes it distinct. Chikankari carries a legacy of more than thirty stitches, some basic ones are tepchi, bakhiya, hool, zanjeera, phanda and murri.
Skillful artisans are no doubt the heroes behind it. Traditionally a wooden block is used to print the design, post which the embroidery is done. This is followed by washing and polishing known as charakh and then finishing which completes the process.
Chikankari is a timeless beauty and is an essential part of fashion globally. Designers love to play with Chikankari in their collection because of its elegance and sophistication. Baleesh intends to make this timeless beauty an essential part of your home and has brought these beautiful jaals and butas on your cushion covers with grandeur of whites and some hues to create your own haven!