- BY RANI SHARMA
This month, we feature lucknowi saris in eye catching, cool pastel colors.
There is no comparison to the traditional craftsmanship of lucknowi chikankari work. The fabric is finely and neatly hand embroidered with traditional white/color threads on the pallu, border and all over the booti. On each saree, you will find a great combination of shadow work, funda, bakhiya, ghaspatti and jaali work.
Hand embroidered, mainly by women artisans, lucknowi chikankari work adds oodles of elegance and style to each sari. Wear it to a gathering, and you will find all eyes upon you. The saris featured here come with matching blouse piece with chikankari work, to make your evening more glamorous.
Each sari takes anywhere from 15 days to 3 months to embroider, depending on the weather conditions, after which it is washed and given finishing touches. This process might take a further 10-15 days. This involves bleaching, acid treatment, stiffening and ironing. Large manpower is engaged in this work and each piece is prepared by individual craftsmen.
Lucknowi chikankari saris of the georgette variety are very delicate and should be handled with care. These saris should be preferably dry-cleaned only. Care for it, as you would a silk sari. Georgette has a crepe surface and it is a lightweight fabric. The fabric is more opaque and heavier than chiffon and made from crepe fibers that are twisted. The Georgette saris are primarily worn on festive occasions and to parties with trendy fashion jewelry. These saris are soft, light and easy to carry and are crafted out of a fascinating combination of color, fabric and design. These saris do not swell up like cotton or heavily decorated saris and cling to the body to give a slim look.
 What is lucknowi chikan work?
- · Chikan work/chikankari is a popular form of embroidery in India.
- · The thread work is accomplished by hand and is predominantly floral in design.
- · Chikankari is crafted using untwisted white silk or cotton or rayon threads.
- ·Lucknowis the main center for chikan work where this art attained glory as well as perfection.
- · Described as the perfect culmination of elegant old world and intricate craftsmanship.
