Nakshi Kantha

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Nakshi Kantha (embroidered quilt) is said to be indigenous to Bangladesh

Nakshi Kantha are embroidered quilts, bedspreads, wall hangings, and pillow shams made by artists in rural Bangladesh. Nakshi Kantha is a folk art that has been passed down through generations of Bangladeshi families.^[1] The art of Nakshi Kantha or embroidered quilt has been flourishing in rural Bengal for centuries. Its exquisite beauty was brought to the notice of city-dwellers, and to some extent, to the outside world.^[2] embroidered quilt said to be indigenous to Bangladesh.

Nakshi Kantha is a traditional textile craft in Bangladesh featuring elaborate stitching in a spectrum of different styles. The word "kantha" originally suggests a light quilt for mild winters and cool monsoon nights. Though the concept exists in almost all parts of the world, the form of quilting that prevails in Bengal is unique, and not only serves as a functional article but also represents the cultural identity and folk art of this land. Passed from one generation of rural women to the next, Nakshi Kantha embroidery incorporates natural motifs and abstract themes into a unique expression of the artisan's creativity.

Traditionally, kanthas have a variety of uses for domestic, ritual, and ceremonial purposes. Kantha articles include spreads and coverlets, cloth for covering dishes and wrapping toilet articles, jainamaz (Muslim prayer mats), gilaf (cover for the Quran), spreads for pujas or for seating special guests or a bridegroom, palki topor (spread for the palanquin), pillow covers, and dining mats, among others.

Apart from large kanthas made to fill large public spaces, today's kanthas are also being designed specifically to meet contemporary needs such as bedcovers and quilt covers, wall-hangings, cushion-covers, place mats, and napkins. Kantha embroidery is also used on saris, dresses, and kurtas.

The revival of Nakshi Kantha has not only generated an interest and appreciation for this indigenous folk art of Bengal, but also helps to provide a livelihood for thousands of rural women who would otherwise not be gainfully employed.