Bhagwandas Retail Private Limited - Cushions

This art-form was originally a form of mural or wall art or Bhitti Chitra practiced in Madhubani in Bihar and showcased the feminine expression usually. It was used primarily in the past for ritualistic purposes such as paintings symbolizing important stages of a persons life, festivals etc. Popular in the Madhubani art form are motifs of mythical figures, deities, nature and local flora and fauna. Most motifs are loaded with symbolic elements and quite recently, linking the cultural and economic setting of the painters life has become a very popular take on expressionism in this art. Both colorful and rich with symbolism, it is an invaluable piece of Indias art history.

As is the story with most of the crafts, Zari or Zardozi embroidery also got its name from a village by the same name in ancient Persia. Zari has always been associated with the affluent sections of the society in India and globally as well because it requires weaving thin threads of gold and silver onto fine fabrics of silk. The result of this intricate piece of designing is so exquisite that it completely justifies its monetary worth. Mughal Emperor Akbar can be credited for bringing a revolution in the emergence of Zari as one of the most sought after crafts and for developing areas around Agra and Lucknow as major clusters for this craft. As the impact of Royal patronage waned in our society, the gold and silver were replaced with gold or silver-plated polyester and cotton yarns or slightly costlier copper threads. Lucknow, owing to its Nawabi heritage, still continues to be the biggest market for Zari and Zardozi embroidery.

Applique work employs ornamental needlework where pieces of cloth are cut out and then sewn back onto fine fabric to make a pattern. The fabric cut out is designed into popular motifs of the region such as flora, fauna, vines or geometric patterns and then hemmed onto the base fabric to make it more attractive. The colors chosen are vibrant and visually appealing for decor purposes. Different regions in India have their own style and central motifs in their respective applique crafts, some prominent states practicing the same being Bihar and Uttarakhand.