Authentic Royal Chikankari Needlecraft from Lucknow.

The Architectural Art of Chikankari CRAFT

Ancestral Shadow Work & Intricate Stitches Handcrafted in Awadh

Chikankari is a traditional form of Lucknow hand embroidery celebrated for its delicate stitches, floral motifs and graceful play of light and shadow. Rooted in the embroidery heritage of Awadh, traditional Chikankari is commonly created on fabrics such as georgette, chiffon, mulmul cotton, organza and Chanderi. Artisans develop intricate botanical jaals, paisleys, borders and individual motifs using a combination of classic stitches including Bakhiya, Phanda, Murri, Tepchi, Hool, Jali and Keel Kangan.

The distinctive character of Lucknow Chikankari comes from the relationship between surface embroidery, shadow work and negative space. Bakhiya creates a refined shadow effect from the reverse of the fabric, while Murri and Phanda add small raised details to floral motifs. Jali work creates delicate open lattice patterns, while Tepchi and other linear stitches define stems, leaves, petals and ornamental borders. These techniques can be combined within a single panel to create detailed traditional and contemporary embroidery designs.

At Awadh Karigiri, traditional Lucknow craftsmanship is combined with contemporary design development, careful sampling and quality-controlled manufacturing. Our artisans create custom Chikankari embroidery for bridalwear, kurtas, sarees, Anarkalis, lehengas, designer collections and couture garments. Designers, boutiques, garment manufacturers and exporters can develop customised motifs, embroidery layouts and bulk B2B production requirements directly with skilled artisans in Lucknow.