Chikankari is a traditional and elegant embroidery style from Lucknow, India. Whether it was discovered in the 3rd century BC by Megasthenes or in the 17th century during the Mughal era by Noor Jahan, Chikankari solely represents Awadhi culture. After the demise of Nur Jahan, the King of Awadh, Nasir-ud-Din Haidar revived the craft in the 1830s by offering chikankari products as expensive gifts to the Britishers and displaying them at darbaars. The cave paintings at Bagh and Ajanta share a number of motifs, patterns, and compositions with this craft.

Chikankari has traditionally been associated with white on white, especially with Bengal’s fine muslins. Nowadays, colored threads are incorporated and various fabrics like georgette, silk, polyester, modal, kota doria, chiffon, organza, chanderi etc are used. Popularly practiced natural motifs include paisley, palm leaf, grass stalks, petal motifs and animal motifs include birds, peacock, butterfly and elephant.