Embroidery - ChikanKari

Chikanari typically represents the art form of the city of Lucknow . Of Persian origin, it means a cloth fashioned with intricate needlework. Chikankari is a light style and very well suited to hot climatic conditions. It combines comfort and aesthetic value.

Light chikan saris and salwar suits are common summer wear for women while men wear chikan kurtas. The source of Chikan ornamentation in Chikankari is Mughal. Similar designs and patterns can be seen in Mughal inspired buildings such as the Taj Mahal. This form was closely associated with the Nawabs and other royal families. Over the years, it filtered down and is today the most common and popular embroidery form.