About Us

OUR STORY

In the heart of Lucknow, a city renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and artistry, a new chapter was about to unfold. It all began in 2002, sparked by a simple yet profound conversation with family about starting something deeply indigenous and profoundly meaningful. This moment was not just an invigorating session; it was the genesis of a dream that would weave itself into the fabric of our lives.

Married into a family steeped in the traditions of Lucknow, I found myself both inspired and invigorated by the city’s timeless artistry. Moreover, I had seen my mother deeply devoting her to the art of embroidery. My passion for Chikankari—a centuries-old embroidery technique that transforms fabric into a canvas of intricate designs—became the guiding force behind this venture. With unwavering support from my family and an inner strength that grew with each step, I embarked on a journey that began in a modest room within our home.

In those early days, it was not just about creating beautiful garments but about honoring a tradition. The journey was not always easy, but it was fueled by a vision of creating something that would not only celebrate our heritage but also bring a fresh, innovative approach to this beloved art form.

The year 2014 marked a significant milestone: the official registration of our company and the acquisition of our MSME license. This was more than just a formalization of our business; it was a testament to our growth, our commitment to quality, and our desire to make a lasting impact. Since then, our story has been one of exponential growth, driven by an unyielding dedication to craftsmanship and an ever-expanding vision.

Today, what began as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a vibrant and flourishing enterprise. Our journey from a single room to a thriving business is not just a tale of success but a celebration of Chikankari’s enduring legacy and our role in its evolution. As we look to the future, we remain deeply rooted in our origins, committed to preserving the artistry of Chikankari while continually innovating to meet the demands of a global audience.

- ANSHU AGARWAL (Co-Founder - The Chikankari Story)

About Chikankari

It is believed that Chikankari originated in 'Chikan', a village in Koh Mehr, District of Persia. The artisans of this art were employed by Noor Jahan herself a connoiseur of this art form. The art flourished in the Mughal harems of Delhi. After the downfall of the Mughal Empire, the progeny of these artisans migrated to Lucknow, the current hub of Chikankari. These artisans settled there under the patronage of the Awadh Kings. Today it continues to flourish in and around Lucknow. This kind of intricate hand emboridery is not done anywhere else in the world. Chikankari is an art form with as many as 32 different types of stitches done mostly using the cotton and polyester thread. However in today's times, even art silk threads are widely used to emboider intricately designed floral motifs.