What is Phulkari?
Phulkari is a traditional folk embroidery of Punjab. The term Phulkari comes from two words put together Phul(means flower) and Akari(means shape). Although it means floral art, the designs of Phulkari are not limited to flowers, they include several eye-catching geometric patterns, village scenes from everyday life, fruits, animals,birds symbolizing wealth, fertility and prosperity.
Phulkaris traditionally were made by mothers and grandmothers as soon as a girl was born in the family, so they can be gifted to the girl during her marriage. Women would clean up their varandas, invite friends and work on this art form while sing folk songs. What a beautiful time it was! Till date, Phulkaris are an absolute necessary part of weddings. Be it Holi or Baisakhi, Janmashtami or Lohdi, Phulkaris are a must have.
The Phulkari designs can range from work all over the fabric such that the underlying fabric is barely visible or modern contemporary designs can have sparse embroidery done throughout. Phulkari come in form of Dupattas, Odhnis(Oversized Dupattas), shawls and more recently stoles.