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Unique Chikan
Unique Chikan

chikankari embroidery garment
History of Chikankari
Chikankari, primarily refers to an embroidery variety done originally with pristine white cotton thread on fine mulls and muslins. The word chikan derives its name from the Persian word, Chakeen, meaning rendering of delicate patterns on fabric.

The Legend
The chikankari embroidery garment is believed to be introduced in seventeenth century by Noorjehan (wife of Mughal emperor Jehangir) who was inspired by Turkish embroidery. Some designs and patterns still exist that are believed to be queen's personal creations.

Sources also attribute that chikankari originated in East Bengal where the word chikan meant 'fine'. 'Chikan' was first referred to in the records Megasthenes, a Greek traveller who mentioned the use of flowered muslins by Indians in the 3rd century B.C.

Indian craftsmen believe that the origin of 'chikankari' goes back to ancient times when a traveller while passing through a village near Lucknow, in Uttar Pradesh, asked for some water from a poor peasant who offered him the desired help. Pleased with his hospitality, the traveller taught him the art of chikankari that would never allow him to go hungry. As per the belief, the traveller was the prophet.

Chikan Embroidery has a unique grace and elegance and this constant presence is maintained throughout the fine cotton or the fabric used. It carefully highlights uniformity and consistency in stitches with fine thread-knots. The patterns and motifs are generally floral and geometric embroidery with exquisite delicacy of detail with even stitches or raised with designs in a mesh pattern.