In the sphere of hand-embroidery, it is hard to find the art that would represent the delicacy, beauty, and cultural heritage of Chikankari. Born in Lucknow, India, the fine embroidery has been used on everything that people want to decorate including kurtas and sarees, dupattas to cushion covers. The most modest and yet most beautiful of all uses of Chikankari, however, is in the rumal, or handkerchief or small square piece of stuff, which so few people ever think or talk about, though of it in all its perfection there is not so much charm.
What is a Chikankari Rumal?
Chikankari rumal handkerchief are made with fine cotton or muslin or other breathable materials which are decorated with hand embroidery of floral and paisley patterns. A combination of different stitches is employed to make such motifs which include bakhiya (shadow work), phanda, murri and keel kangan and have a delicate and intricate piece of art. They are minute in size but centuries of craft and culture go into the making of each Chikankari rumal with this culture being often transferred over generations of artists in Uttar Pradesh.
Ways to Use a Chikankari Rumal
Although historically, people used the Chikankari rumal as a handkerchief, there exist several ways to use it nowadays:
- Fashion Accessory
A Chikankari rumal may also be used as a pocket square by folding it and putting it in the breast flap of a blazer. It immediately gives a touch of the Indian heritage and minor sophistication on formal or semi-formal outfits. The loose material with fruity embroidery is simply stunning as a contrast to rigid clothes. - Accessory on Hair or Head
Worn tied around your head in a bug bandana, wrapped on the top of your head as a hair wrap, or a headband the rumal can complement any vintage, or even bohemian hairstyle. It is fashionable as well as functional especially in spring and summer. - Gift Wrapping
To those who adore beautiful and sustainable wrapping of gifts, a Chikankari rumal would be a great choice (instead of paper), since it is elegant and can be used repeatedly. Put a small gift in it and fasten with a ribbon and now it is not only a gift, but a souvenir. - Spiritual or Ritual Use
Weddings and other Indian ceremonies mostly involve chikankari rumals. They can be worn on an altar, a puja thali or hung over consecrated items brightening the spiritual atmosphere with their purity and quality workmanship. - Accent Home Decor
An embroidered rumal works as a decoration on the table too, as well: a rumal is simply a nice place under a vase, candle or other small item that can beautify your room.
Preserving a Piece of Tradition
It does not only about functionality or beauty, it is also about supporting a centuries-old craft that is being carried out by women of India. All the stitches are a story of the heritage, of the skilled artisans, and of a community that still manages to keep this art alive against the changing trends. You may carry a piece of cloth but when you carry a Chikankari rumal you are carrying a piece of history.
Final Thoughts
It is a world of speed, mass production and in such a world, the Chikankari rumal can mean slowing long enough to take care and giving this a touch of art. Whether in style, tradition or for regular use, it is a muffled yet a staggering role reminding of India and its texture filled heritage. No, you will not find an elephant in miniature, but a Chikankari rumal that can be included in the collection, will say much more.
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