Rabri Embroidery
Gujarat is a place which has been always known for embroideries and mirror work. Along with it Rabri embroidery is a major one. From years it is fascinating people eyes and had great demand from foreign to within the country. It is not only an art but also present the attire and culture of gujratians.
This art is originated from Rabri community. Rabari or Rahabari means one who live outside or goes out of the path. People of this community were migrated from Sindh ( now in Pakistan) about 400 years ago. These nomads live in western region of Rajasthan to Kutch region of Gujarat.
They are cattle rearing community but are engaged in embroidery work too. Men majorly work with leather and women with embroider garments and accessories. Various subgroups are also involve in this like Kucchi, Dhebari, Wagadia.
Colourful threads and various types of geometrical mirrors are use in this embroidery. Few of the materials are silk, cotton and woolen fabrics, embroidery threads of varied colours and abla or circular mirrors. Motifs are inspired by mythology and desert habitation which depict the culture of gujarat.
Some of the attractions:
Toran ( Door way hanging) :- These are prepared to hang on the main door of the house which gives a warm welcoming charm.
Rabri shawl :- It is the important highlight of this art. These shawls are beautifully decorated with threads and mirrors and moreover had great demand.
Kapadu (Backless blouse) :- This is the attire of locals over there, also it symbolizes traditional wear.
Paheranu (Skirts) :- Although they seems skirt cum “Ghagra” .This is traditional dress and are wore by girls over there on their marriage ceremony or special occasions.
Girls over there prepare their own dowry by preparing various items with rabri embroidery. Some of them like bedcovers, bags, camel covers, Torans (door way hanging), Ghagra choli and many more. Whenever you visit gujarat don’t forget to have rabri embroidery items.
