Kashmiri Embroidery
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Embroideries Of India |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | December 19, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 15 |
| Quantity | 31,248 |
| Perforation | 13 x 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Ms. Gulistaan Sh. Pallab Bose |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3633 Stamp Number IN 3194 Yvert et Tellier IN 3310 Stanley Gibbons IN 3709 |
| Themes | Textile |
The Timeless Art of Needle and Nature
A Legacy Woven in the Valleys
Among the many treasures of Indian textile art, Kashmiri embroidery, also known as Kashida, stands as an exquisite symbol of elegance, patience, and craftsmanship. Originating from the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, this embroidery form reflects the serene beauty and vibrant life of the region. Each thread captures the essence of nature — the swaying of chinar leaves, the bloom of lotus flowers, and the flight of birds across snow-capped mountains.
Nature as the Eternal Muse
What makes Kashmiri embroidery truly captivating is its deep connection with nature. Inspired by the lush flora and fauna of the valley, traditional motifs include flowers, creepers, chinar leaves, mangoes, lotuses, and trees. Every piece is a poetic expression of the weaver’s surroundings, transforming plain fabric into living art that mirrors the soul of Kashmir itself.
Distinctive Stitches and Techniques
The beauty of Kashmiri embroidery lies in its delicate execution — often achieved through the mastery of a single continuous stitch. The embroidery employs an array of intricate techniques, such as the chain stitch, satin stitch, slanted darn stitch, stem stitch, and herringbone stitch. These create textures that add depth and grace to the fabric. Traditionally, artisans used white, off-white, or cream bases of silk, wool, or cotton, though modern interpretations now embrace a palette of rich hues like maroon, brown, deep blue, and sky blue.
From Phirans to Pashminas: Threads of Heritage
Kashmiri embroidery has adorned a wide range of traditional garments and home textiles — from phirans (woollen kurtas) and namdahs (woollen rugs) to elegant stoles and shawls. Each hand-embroidered piece reflects the artisan’s skill, taking days or even weeks to complete. The result is timeless — an heirloom that carries forward Kashmir’s centuries-old cultural legacy.
The Royal Connection
Historically, Kashida embroidery found its way into royal courts and noble households. It was a symbol of refinement and prestige, cherished for its intricate beauty and unmatched quality. Over generations, it has evolved, yet it continues to embody the same sophistication that once graced the wardrobes of emperors and queens.
Kashmiri Embroidery on Stamps: A Tribute to Indian Craftsmanship
To honor India’s diverse textile heritage, India Post issued a commemorative stamp celebrating Kashmiri Embroidery — a tribute to the artisans who transform fabric into poetry. This stamp immortalizes the delicate threads and intricate motifs of Kashida, representing not only an art form but the enduring spirit of the Kashmiri people.