Phulkari - Captivating Artwork of Punjab

Phulkari is a prominent artwork of the state of Punjab that adds to the popularity of the most happening place in India. The term Phulkari means flowering or floral work that is clearly visible in the final artwork. The craft basically involves embroidery of floral designs and patterns on various garments like shawls, scarf, handkerchief, sarees, and dupattas.
Evolution of this captivating craft dates back to the sixteenth century when women of the state started involving themselves in this activity during their free time. The craft started as an unprofessional disposition but over a period of time, its charm, beauty, and elegance was widespread. With this increasing worth, Phulkari turned out to be a professional artwork in the nineteenth century.
This beautiful craft is done by making small darn stitches over the cloth in an artistic manner. The stitches are done in various intricate designs using a silk yarn that is available in a spectrum of colors and shades. The base cloth is hand woven and adding immensely beautiful designs on that adds more charm and beauty to the cloth. Some of the most common designs and patterns embroidered are figures of vegetables, fruits, animals, birds, leaves, rivers, sun, buildings, and moon. Furthermore, sun-shade pattern, coriander design, jasmine picture, and rainbow pattern are most popular patterns of Phulkari. A wide range of color combinations are used to make these figures and artistic designs. Some prominent colors used are yellow, crimson, golden, green, pink, and blue. Apart from these there are abundant of color options and shades that add vibrancy and life to the Phulkari garment or textile.
The traditional craft also reflects the rich heritage of the state and is considered to be a symbol of love. Some of the Phulakri clothes are believed to showcase various scenes from real life that narrate the essence of cultural activities. With various designs and patterns, the Phulkari craft expresses every emotion of love, care, concern, and humanity.