Lucknow- the state capital of Uttar Pradesh is world renowned for its traditional ChikankariEmbroidery. Chikankari is the embroidery work done with the white cotton thread on fine white cotton material. Chikankari is also called as shadow work. The word 'Chikan' is basically derived from Persian word 'Chikeen'. The origin of Chikankari is initiated by the influence of intricate carving patterns of Mughal architecture during their period. The Chikan work in Lucknow is older than 200 years and later it is patronized by Nawabs. There are three stages involved in making chikankari namely block printing, embroidery work and washing. Initially, the design to be worked is printed on the plain fabric. The wooden block is dipped in the color solution. Then it is printed on the fabric. There will be different blocks for butis, floral patterns and borders. The printed fabric is now ready for the embroidery work. The embroidery is done over the printed design pattern using needle and thread. Different types of stitches can be made in one product. Washing is the final stage of production process. The fabric after embroidery work is first soaked in water and then washed to remove the block printed blue color. Then it is starched and ironed to obtain stiffness. The final product is now ready for the market.

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