The Artisan
An artisan with over a decade of experience, she practices Chikankari under the all-women Ehsas Social Welfare Foundation based in Chowk, Lucknow.
Iram Fatima
Iram Fatima
An artisan with over a decade of experience, she practices Chikankari under the all-women Ehsas Social Welfare Foundation based in Chowk, Lucknow.
The Craft
Lucknow Chikankari is a delicate hand-embroidery art renowned for its subtle elegance. Stitched on fine cotton, georgette, and muslin using precise needlework like bakhiya (shadow work), tepchi, and phanda, it crafts intricate floral and geometric motifs.
The Place
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, the historic capital of Awadh, is India's primary center for fine hand embroidery. Famed for its royal patronage and rich cultural heritage, the city serves as a thriving artisan cluster where traditional crafts like Chikankari and Zardozi flourish across traditional family-run workshops.
The Product
Hand-embroidered Kurtis, Anarkalis, sarees, dupattas, and ethnic co-ord sets on lightweight fabrics like muslin, cotton, georgette, and organza.
Lucknow, Uttar PradeshOrigin
CottonMaterial
Hand embroideryTechnique
Story behind the Craft
Rooted in Mughal courtly culture, Chikankari was introduced by Empress Noor Jahan and flourished under the Nawabs of Awadh. Inspired by Lucknow's floral architecture and carved jaali stone screens, this delicate white-on-white shadow embroidery evolved from royal court attire into a cherished home-based craft passed down through generations of artisan women.
Contact : +91 9919749012
Instagram: ehsas_emporio