The History & Evolution An integral part of Indian culture since 655 AD Chikan Kari was strongly rekindled by Moghul queen Noor Jehan in later date. It not only enjoyed patronization of the Moguls but also attained perfection as the exquisite needlework and hand work underwent further honing and refinement. Admired the world over today, the art has trickled into every section of fashion world and every part of India–thanks to the contribution of different forms of medium like films and fashion shows.
Inhibition and its elimination But despite the global acclaims its the place with strong Sulatni history, Lucknow, that has still sustained an unrivaled supremacy in producing the finest Chikan in India. Despite the long alliance between Bollywood and Chikan Kari there was a recurring problem to contend with until few years back. Keen on preserving the originality and preventing it from suffering a dilution to the market forces, the torchbearers of the couture, the craftsmen based in Lucknow, were reluctant to alter it according to the needs of the organized fashion world and tinsel town. But lately-courtesy the exposure and thus ascendance in market demand that some of the big opulent commercial successes like Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Mughal-e-Azam, Pakeeza, Zubeida and many more have ensured–there is a new found accommodative and adaptive attitude to be found among the hitherto conservationist craftsmen. The change in attitude and a sense of professionalism among the younger generation of chikankari workers have made them an indispensable property in the Bombay fashion mart as well as the colourful world of dream makers–Bollywood.
