NAKSHIGHOR

Nakshi kantha, A type of embroidered quilt, is a centuries-old Bengali art tradition of the Bengali Region, The basic material used is thread and old cloth. Nakshi kanthas are made throughout Bangladesh, but the greater Mymensingh, Jamalpur, Bogra, Rajshahi, Faridpur and Jessore areas are most famous for this craft.

The colourful patterns and designs that are embroidered resulted in the name "Nakshi Kantha", which was derived from the Bengali word "naksha", which refers to artistic patterns. The early kanthas had a white background accented with red, blue and black embroidery; later yellow, green, pink and other colours were also included. The running stitch called "kantha stitch" is the main stitch used for the purpose.Traditionally, kantha was produced for the use of the family. Today, after the revival of the nakshi kantha, they are produced commercially.

Different forms of the running kantha stitch are named according to the pattern each creates. While each kantha has designs that are unique to its maker’s imagination, usually there is a basic traditional pattern. Some of the most common motifs used are: lotus, solar, moon, chakra or wheel, swastika, tree-of-life, kalka, water, mountain, fish, boat, agricultural items and animals (elephant, horses, peacocks, tiger, monkeys, etc).

Chok Par :- eye border
Barfi Par :- diamond border
Beki Par :- wavy or bent 
Nolok Taga :- nose ring border
Maach Par :- fish border
Chok Taga :- eye motif border
Dheu Par :- wavy border
Gaach Par :- tree border

The revival of Nakshi Kantha has not only generated an interest and appreciation for this indigenous folk art of Bengal, but has also helped to provide a livelihood for thousands of rural women who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed. Aarong has played an instrumental role in reviving the kantha art since the late ‘70s by training and supporting thousands of rural women in its various centers, which focus specifically on the making of Nakshi Kantha and other products, made from this art. It has helped to make this invaluable art be integrated in Bangladesh’s cultural life and also promoted its value and recognition on an international level.