20+ Types of Indian Embroidery Every Textile Lover Should Know

India is a treasure trove of textile traditions, and among its most exquisite contributions to global fashion is the art of embroidery. Every region of India offers its own unique stitching style, often influenced by local history, climate, community art, and religious practices. These needlecrafts aren't just decorative — they tell stories, preserve heritage, and showcase unmatched handcraftsmanship.

Here’s a journey through 20+ types of Indian embroidery that continue to influence contemporary fashion and couture globally.

1. Zardozi (Uttar Pradesh)

Luxurious and regal, Zardozi uses gold and silver threads with pearls and stones on silk, velvet, or satin. Originally patronized by Mughal royalty, it's now a staple in bridal wear.

2. Chikankari (Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh)

A delicate, white-on-white embroidery technique traditionally done on muslin. Chikankari is known for its elegant floral patterns and subtle charm — perfect for summer.

3. Phulkari (Punjab)

Literally meaning “flower work,” this vibrant embroidery uses geometric patterns and bright threads on coarse cotton, often on shawls and dupattas.

4. Kashida (Kashmir)

This embroidery draws inspiration from nature — think birds, flowers, and trees — and is typically done on wool and silk shawls using muted tones.

5. Kantha (West Bengal & Odisha)

Known for its running stitches, Kantha is a storytelling embroidery where old saris and dhotis are repurposed into layered quilts and stoles.

6. Mirror Work / Abhla Bharat (Gujarat & Rajasthan)

A festive embroidery style incorporating small mirrors with vibrant threads, popular in ghagras, cholis, and wall hangings.

7. Kutchi Work (Gujarat)

This form combines chain stitch with intricate motifs, using silk threads, beads, and mirrors, especially prominent in nomadic communities.

8. Rabari Embroidery (Kutch, Gujarat)

Done by the Rabari community, this bold embroidery involves mirror work and motifs of camels, elephants, and religious symbols.

9. Aari Embroidery (Rajasthan, Kashmir & Tamil Nadu)

Using a hooked needle called an ‘aari’, this style produces fine chain stitches in floral and paisley motifs, often seen on bridal and festive attire.

10. Pipli Appliqué (Odisha)

Though technically appliqué, Pipli uses embroidery techniques to stitch cut fabric pieces onto a base, creating vibrant, graphic patterns.

11. Gota Patti (Rajasthan)

Perfect for wedding and festive garments, Gota Patti uses gold or silver ribbon appliqué work, creating rich ornamental borders and motifs.

12. Banjara Embroidery (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana)

This nomadic style features bright threads, mirror work, and cowrie shells. It’s known for its rustic, bohemian aesthetic.

13. Toda Embroidery (Tamil Nadu)

Practiced by the Toda tribe, this red and black geometric embroidery on white woolen shawls reflects tribal art and symbolism.

14. Kasuti (Karnataka)

A symmetrical, counted-thread style using geometric motifs. Traditionally used on Ilkal saris, Kasuti features temple towers, chariots, and lotuses.

15. Chamba Rumal (Himachal Pradesh)

This double-sided embroidery creates mirror-image motifs on both sides of the fabric, featuring tales from epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

16. Bharat Embroidery (Maharashtra)

Also known as “fine embroidery,” it includes styles like shadow work and cross-stitch, done on fine muslin or cotton fabric.

17. Pahari Embroidery (Uttarakhand & Himachal)

This floral-based embroidery uses fine threads on wool or cotton, typically seen on shawls and traditional garments of the hill regions.

18. Sujani Embroidery (Bihar)

Traditionally done on old saris, Sujani uses a combination of running stitch and chain stitch to depict daily life, mythology, or fertility symbols.

19. Lambadi Embroidery (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana)

Practiced by the Lambadi tribal women, this embroidery uses mirrors, beads, and bright threads on coarse fabrics for eye-catching contrast.

20. Manipuri Embroidery (Manipur)

Known for subtle and clean lines, Manipuri embroidery often embellishes handloom fabrics, showcasing motifs from nature and mythology.

21. Mocha Work (Gujarat)

A dying art from Bhuj, this intricate embroidery uses very fine threads and mostly black-and-red patterns, often seen on wedding outfits.

22. Zalakdozi (Kashmir)

A heavy form of chain stitch embroidery done on woolens using a hooked needle, often mistaken for Aari but with more dense detailing.

Why Indian Embroidery Matters in Modern Fashion

Indian embroidery is no longer confined to traditional wear — it’s inspiring global haute couture, contemporary bridal fashion, and even minimalist aesthetics. Designers today are fusing these techniques into Western silhouettes, creating a powerful crossover of cultures.

Whether you’re a fashion student, textile enthusiast, or someone curating your next bridal outfit, understanding these embroidery styles opens a deeper appreciation for India’s artisanal brilliance.

Final Thoughts

These embroidery traditions are more than just beautiful stitches; they are the heartbeat of regional identities and living legacies. Supporting hand embroidery — whether through conscious fashion or sustainable design — helps preserve centuries of artistic wisdom.

Would you like help creating a downloadable visual guide or Pinterest board featuring these embroidery styles? I’d be happy to assist!

Let me know if you’d like the blog localized (e.g., focusing on bridal fashion, sustainable craft, or specific state-wise culture).