Kantha Embroidery

Born out of necessity but protected and honed out of pride, Kantha embroidery, like the products it adorns, has an elaborate past. It began as the ingenuity of Bengali housewives mending clothes with strands of coloured thread from old sarees and dhotis. Indeed, these simple Kantha designs stitched together the wide tapestry of society, covering all factions, whether with rich, complex patterns or simple but spirited ones.

Of course, the Kantha embroidery motifs and designs themselves have stepped up to contemporary times, whilst keeping tradition alive. Day-to-day inspiration is clearly the cause behind the craft, brought to life with birds, animals, scenes from a simpler time and even pop art!

Proudly touted as a specialized skill, women artisans in rural Bengal consider themselves the elusive members of an “exclusive” group, where only future generations are permitted. And why not? Juggling household chores and huge families, whilst ensuring old, treasured crafts continue to thrive is an art by itself!