Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities and a prominent spiritual center, is celebrated globally for its Zardozi embroidery. This intricate craft is primarily produced in the Lallapura neighborhood, where skilled artisans, including significant contributions from women, create badges, emblems, and garments using zari (gold and silver threads) and silk. The craft boasts collaborative efforts between Hindu and Muslim communities.
Source: The Times of India
About Zardozi work:
It is a form of embroidery that came to India from Persia.
Its literal translation, “zar” meaning gold and “dozi” meaning embroidery, refers to the process of using metallic-bound threads to sew embellishment onto various fabrics.
This heavy and intricate style of design is said to have been brought to India with the Mughal conquerors.
After flourishing seamlessly in the initial Mughal period, the craft declined during the rule of Emperor Aurangzeb when the royal patronage that had been extended to craftsmen was stopped. The onset of industrialization in the 18th and 19th centuries was yet another setback.
It has been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2013, which has not only enhanced the market reach of these crafts, extending to Europe, the Gulf, and Asia, but it has also revitalized the traditional craftsmanship.
It involves making elaborate designs, using gold and silver threads. Further adding to the magnificence of the work are the studded pearls and precious stones. However, nowadays, craftsmen make use of a combination of copper wire, with a golden or silver polish, and a silk thread.