Lucknowi Chikankari

Lucknow Chikankari is a delicate, traditional hand embroidery from Lucknow, India, with a rich history dating back to the 17th-century Mughal era. Empress Nur Jahan is often credited with introducing this Persian art form to the region, where it flourished under royal patronage with motifs inspired by nature and architecture. The craft holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, protecting its authenticity.
The creation process is highly collaborative and labor-intensive:
  1. Design & Printing: Designs are block-printed onto light fabrics (muslin, cotton, silk) to provide a guide for artisans.
  2. Embroidery: Predominantly female artisans meticulously hand-stitch using a variety of about 32 traditional stitches, including "shadow work" (bakhiya), raised knots (phanda), and intricate jali (net) work. This is often done from their homes in local villages.
  3. Washing: The finished product is washed to remove the temporary dye, starched, and ironed.
Authentic Chikankari is globally praised for its timeless elegance and the sheer artistry of the human touch. Purchasing it supports hundreds of thousands of artisans, promotes fair trade, and helps preserve a unique cultural legacy, offering a sustainable and elegant alternative to mass-produced fashion.