Banni Embroidery: A Lively Work of Vivid Colors and Mirror Work
Banni Embroidery that comes from Kutch region in India is known for its bright red, saffron and yellow colors along with mirror work using beads. It is primarily worked by the local community of Jats and it has recognition for its richness and intricacy. The fabric is decorated with architectural designs and the embroidery is also known as Heer Bharat. The silk floss used for Banni Embroidery is locally known as heer. The embroidery typically manipulates the fabric weave. And, the mirrors are studded with chain stitch and buttonhole.
Banni Embroidery actually originated in the semi-desert stretches of land known as Banni. Even though the jats most commonly use this embroidery, it is also common with Mutwas, the Lohanas of Khavda, Harijans and others from villages in Banni. Banni Embroidery that bears a resemblance to the Kutchi embroidery uses petite, ornate designs in vivid flamboyant colors that is considered the most striking and splendid among different Kutchi embroidery types. It also includes the mirror work which is generally known as ‘shisha’. In this work, glass is cut into various shapes and sizes with the embroidery revolving around it. For minute work of mirror embroidery, the garari jats are renowned for their work using threads with various colors and hues. They especially cut the mirror shapes from a vase that is blown with a mouth pipe.
The Mutwa women of the region have developed a unique embroidery in which fine embroidery work along with mirrors and motifs the size of pinheads are used. Geometric designs are used on long dress yokes by the Gracia jats. Additionally, the finest quilts having appliqué work can also be found distinctly in this region.
Nowadays, Banni Embroidery has earned a lot of fame among art lovers from around the world. The Banni women are able to develop a second nature using threads of different colors, without using the elements from the natural flora and fauna. Globally, Banni Embroidery has been successful in creating a unique embroidery style for the Kutch region that is now recognized globally. The mirror work, which is a myriad of different styles from the region, gives a presentation of the rick texture and artwork of the ethnic groups of the Kutch region.
Banni Embroidery is an important part of the traditional culture in the Kutch region. A bride takes along garments worked in Banni Embroidery. The embroidery is worked around the glass pieces in different sizes and moulds. It is considered to be one of the most distinct and dazzling embroidery forms. The effect is further enhanced with subtle weaves on the fabric that helps grab attention.
Presently, Banni Embroidery has spread to different corners of India as a form of art and craftsmen have introduced innovative new designs into the stitching work. Traditionally, the use of this work was limited to specific garments, but presently it is worked on a large variety of fabrics and garments like home decors, bridal wears and sherwanis. The embroidery is quite popular in bridal wears for the sparkling effect given by the mirror pieces.
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Related Tags:
Banni embroidery, aari work, french work, brocade, georgette
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