Threads of Tradition: Exploring Chikankari Craft

Awadh Chikankari, also known as Lucknowi Chikan or Lucknow Chikankari, is a traditional hand embroidery craft originating from Lucknow, India, with a history spanning over 200 years. This exquisite embroidery technique involves delicate and intricate hand embroidery using a sewing needle on various fabrics, traditionally muslin and mulmul but now expanded to include silk, cotton, chiffon, and other lightweight textiles.

The craft features a wide range of ancient embroidery techniques, creating unique motifs and designs. At Punarnawa we have documented 100-year-old wooden blocks and designs that have some unique magnificent designs influenced by both Nawab and Persian designs. 

Punarnawa has its team of Chapaikar, Chikankari artisans and Zardozans who are contributing to the Awadhi tradition of Chikankari by offering a diverse range of handmade kurtas, dupattas, and sarees often made to order to experience the finest of workmanship. One of the key distinctions between authentic hand-done Chikankari or Awadhi Chikankari with commercial Chiknkari is the use of sewing needles vs machine embroidery and aari work. Hand embroidery involves intricate embroidery work by a few surviving skilled artisans, resulting in varied lines, textures, and designs, with each piece bearing the mark of the weaver's creativity. In contrast, machine embroidery and aari work produce more uniform and standardized designs, with less variation between individual pieces. Explore our exclusive collection of handmade Awadhi Chikankari pieces today! Also if you are an old soul we recommend getting in touch with us for creating your grand Awadhi experience in Dhakai muslin Chikankri.