Chikankari

Chikankari is a traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, India. The piece begins with one or more pattern blocks that are used to block-print a pattern on the ground fabric. The embroiderer stitches the pattern, and the finished piece is carefully washed to remove all traces of the printed pattern.

Chikankari received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its association with Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in 2008. This tag protects the embroidery craft from imitation and misuse, ensuring that only authentic Chikankari made in and around Lucknow can be marketed as such and guaranteeing a certain quality and authenticity to consumers.