Phulkari Embroidery of Punjab

Phulkari (flower work) is a traditional embroidery tradition of Punjab practised by women as part of trousseau preparation for weddings, using darning stitch on coarse khaddar (hand-spun cotton) or khadi cloth. The characteristic technique covers the entire base cloth with diagonal satin stitches using floss silk thread in vibrant yellows, oranges, reds, and pinks — creating geometric or stylised floral patterns from the reverse side of the cloth. When the embroidery covers the entire base cloth it is called bagh (garden). Traditional phulkari includes thirteen named types: chope (bride gift), vari-da-bagh (gift from groom), darshan-dwar (temple scene), and more. The craft was practised by Sikh, Hindu, and Muslim women alike across the undivided Punjab. Post-Partition, the tradition continued in Indian Punjab districts of Bathinda, Patiala, and Faridkot. GI tag awarded to Phulkari from Punjab in 2011. Punjab Phulkari Artisans Cooperative and KVIC promote commercial production.