Chikan is a traditional craft style from Lucknow, India. The technique of creation of chikan work is known as Chikankari. Chikan is a delicate and artfully done hand embroidery on a variety of textile fabrics like muslin, silk, chiffon, organza, net, etc. Lucknow is the heart of the chikankari industry today and the variety is known as Lucknawi chikan.
Though the Legendary Chikankari's evolution are centuries old and believed to be brought to India by the Persians, the most popular story credits to Noor Jahan, Mughal empress and wife of Jahangir, introduced Chikankari to India. Chikan began as a type of white-on-white embroidery initially but now vast colors and designs are used in various fabrics. In recent times Lucknawi Chikankari has evolved its appearance by the addition of embellishments like Mukaish, Kamdani, Badla, Sequins, Aari-Zari, Gotapatti and use of beads and mirror work.
Simplicity, classy and subtle appearance are the main features of this handcrafted fabric.
The skilled artisans uses needle, thread and frame to complete the hand embroidery stitches on the block printed designs, making it a beautiful embroidered fabric. The finished product gives a visual treat to your eyes. In the modern times, machine embroidery is launched despite to hand embroidery but the charm of the embroidery remains the same.
From the ages, Chikankari has always been a favorite in Indian wardrobes for any festive and wedding occasions. When styled in a right way, Chikankari clothes can suit you well for any event whether it's a low-key profile or a high-key profile one. It also gives the comfort of wearing during any casual days making it a perfect summer wear. The use of Chikankari by the bollywood celebrities are remarkable. The richness, royalty, delicate and intricate detailing of the Lucknawi chikankari manages to bring the charm to your style of dressing. There stands a lot of reasons as to why India's yet another significant craftsmanship, The Chikankari has a remarkable place in the textile Industry.