Indian Handicrafts and Textiles

In R.K. Narayan's novel 'Swami and Friends', the protagonist, Swami, works as a weaver to earn money for his family.

Phulkari is a traditional embroidery style from Punjab, known for its intricate floral motifs and the use of mirrors.

Bidriware is a metal handicraft from Bidar, Karnataka, known for its intricate designs created by hammering and chiseling on metal surfaces.

Bandhani, a traditional textile from Gujarat and Rajasthan, is known for its intricate tie-dye patterns created by binding and dyeing the fabric.

Channapatna toys, from the town of Channapatna in Karnataka, are known for their intricate designs created by chiseling and painting on wood.

Kalamkari, a traditional textile from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is known for its intricate hand-painted designs using natural dyes.

Chikankari, a traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is known for its intricate designs created using a needle and thread.

Ikat, a traditional textile from various regions of India, is known for its geometric patterns and vibrant colors created by a dyeing technique that involves tying and dyeing the threads before weaving.

Shisha embroidery, a traditional embroidery style from Gujarat and Rajasthan, is known for its intricate designs created using small mirrors.

Kantha, a traditional embroidery style from West Bengal, is known for its intricate appliqué work, where layers of fabric are stitched together to create colorful and textured designs.

Zardozi, a traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is known for its intricate designs created using beads and sequins.