Embroidery from Gujarat

Embroidery, for the Gujaratis, is more than an art or a means of living. It presides over almost all aspects of their lives, right from the simple, beady decorations for cradles and domestic animals to the more ornate ‘abala’ or mirror embroidery in which small round shaped mirrors are stitched to the material.

Saurashtra and Kutch regions are the most noted centers of embroidery in the state. Ari embroidery with silk threads, with the motifs of dancing peacocks, human figures and dancing poses, is one of the finest embroidery works. There are many more embroidery styles, like that of Kathi, the oldest embroidery known for its romantic motifs.

It is at Surajkund Crafts Fair, an annual event of Haryana Tourism that these delicate pieces of art are exhibited. The fair showcases the rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts of India.