The history of phulkari dates back to the time when women ofall religions made and wore these embroidered textiles.
Just as gold is passed down through generations, phulkaris in the early 19th century signified a woman’s material wealth and were considered an important part of her wardrobe. They were usually worn as shawls that were pulled over the head on special occasions such as weddings, births and other rituals. The design of the phulkaris varies from region to region, are partly embroidered according to memory or embroidered according to old patterns. The work on the phulkaris is already started with the birth of a girl by her grandmother, introduced by rituals and prayers. In Hindu regions, people also embroider figural motifs and entire everyday scenes.

Richard Vill, President of the European Textile Academy, said: “This exhibition illustrating the artistic, cultural and political significance of the Phulkari was long overdue and is sure to delight visitors who are not familiar with this extraordinary art form.