Craft Name: Chamba Rumal (Chamba textile painting & embroidery)
Region: Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
CRAFT
HISTORY
Chamba Rumal embroidery originated in the Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh, flourishing from the 17th century under royal patronage. Inspired by Pahadi miniature paintings, the Rumal depicted scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and local folklore. Traditionally, it was embroidered on fine muslin or handspun cotton using double-sided satin stitch, ensuring both sides looked identical. The Rumal served as ceremonial gifts, wedding textiles, and tokens of honour. The art declined in the 20th century but witnessed revival efforts through museums and craft organisations.
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE:
- Double-sided embroidery identical on both sides.
- Chamba Rumal is GI tag protected
- Rich satin stitch with fine silk threads
Received a
GI tag
COLOURS
- Earthy and jewel tones- ochre, indigo, crimson, greens.
How much time does it take to make a product, and how many artisans are involved in making this craft?
A Chamba Rumal takes 7–30 days, embroidered by 1–2 master artisans using double-sided satin stitches.
MOTIFS
- Narrative human figures, court scenes, animals, floral borders inspired by Pahari painting.
RAW MATERIAL
- Fabrics: fine cotton or silk rumal pieces
- Threads: silk/cotton floss in bright and muted tones
- Needles, small frames
CRAFT MAKING PROCESS
HOW TO IDENTIFY GENUINE CHAMBA RUMAL
- Miniature narrative scenes done with precise chain-stitch.
- Proportionate figures and Pahari painting influence.