Documentary on the Intangible Heritage of Chikankari – ‘Thread of Life’ Back

Documentary directed by Shalini Raghaviah commissioned by ICH Division, INTACH. This film features the age old practice brought to Lucknow, by Noor Jahan in 1800s; Chikankari and how its minute details in the traditional and fashion sense has been changed over the years. The movie traces the story of 3 women of different generations, and how their lives and work have contributed to the preservation, continuation and modernisation of this intangible culture.
Asam Begum; an artisan and leader of a community based Chikankari programme, Shipra Anand; Fashion Designer and Educator, Shruti Singh; entrepreneur and creator of the brand Zarchi.
These 3 storylines trace the evolution of Chikankari from a households industry which was done without any deadlines and at the leisure of the women to an artistic expression which is commercialised in order to expand and keep alive the art. The skill of Chikankari is passed from mother to daughter or mother-in-law to daughter-in-law, it still exhibits the Islamic influences, as most its designs are arabesque and nature inspired.
But new organisations like NEED, Zarchi are focussed on not only reviving this art in a commercial manner, but also in restoring the pride and ownership, the artisans had on this craft. They also focus on bettering the lives of these artisans so that they can reclaim this profession as well as get benefits in keeping this tradition alive. The film traces this journey through Shruti Singh and Shipra Anand.
The documentary attempts to elucidate the efforts of these 3 women and how this has changed the face of once forgotten Chikankari.