What is Phulkari?

About Phulkari:

• Phulkari, meaning "flower work," is a traditional embroidery of Punjab and Haryana.
• The term first appeared in 18th-century Punjabi literature and may be linked to the Iranian art of gulkari.
• Historically, phulkari chaddars were an essential part of a girl's marriage trousseau, crafted by mothers and grandmothers from the girl's birth.
• Girls learned to embroider early, with the number of phulkaris reflecting the family's status and marking cultural milestones.
• Features:
  • It is a form of counted-thread embroidery recognised by its neat, regular patterns of geometric and natural motifs.
  • Phulkari embroidery uses khaddar, a handspun and handwoven cotton fabric, traditionally dyed in madder brown, rust red, indigo, or green.
  • Colourful silk threads are used to create flower patterns on the fabric.
  • The mix of colourful silk threads creates a beautiful and exciting design.
  • The floral imagery used in phulkari includes marigolds, jasmines, lotuses, and Tree of Life motifs.
  • Modern motifs such as trains, trucks, and cars have also found their way into phulkari patterns.
  • Phulkari’s product range includes embroidered chaddars, dupattas, and stoles, traditionally worn by brides or for ceremonies.