Each state in India has developed its own distinctive styles,
techniques, and designs, which are known by local or state names. The
inspiration often comes from Hindu religion and the local flora and fauna same
is the case with the Embroidery of the state of Rajasthan. Here is a look at
Rajasthani embroidery and Hindu influence.
In Rajasthan, each place has its own distinctive style of
embroidery.
A specialty of Rajasthani designs is the depiction of birds
such as peacocks, and animals such as horses, camels, elephants and lions.
The Jat women of Sikar and Jhunjhun embroider the motifs of
birds and animals on their skirt borders, while women of the same community in
Bikaner embroider their thick woolen shawls by employing double-running
stitches to create patterns similar to bandhani – a popular method of
imprinting multi-colored design by the know tie and dye process.
The Mev tribals in Alwar employ the chain-stitch and embroider
their wraps predominantly with yellow silk threads. These wraps bear
resemblance to the phulkaris – floral motifs of Punjab, where the stitches and
motifs, floral or geometrical, are combined with those of birds such as dancing
peacocks.
Women from Jaisalmer, too, wear richly embroidered garments,
the motifs often interspersed with small round pieces of mirrors held into the
fabric by buttonhole stitches. Embroidery is combined with appliqué.
The embroideries of Nathdwara depict the image of Vishnu (Shrinathji)
on the fabric by using a needle and colored silk threads. These follow the
style of painted pichchwais of Shrinathji.
The desert areas of India are known for their ornately
embroidered leather shoes and camel saddles.
Love of primary colors – red, yellow and blue – is typical
of Rajasthani embroidery.
Notes Taken from - Encyclopedia of Hinduism Volume IV – India Heritage Research Foundation – Page no 34.
Notes Taken from - Encyclopedia of Hinduism Volume IV – India Heritage Research Foundation – Page no 34.