The Phulkari is a type of Punjabi embroidery that is heavily infused with the bright colour of nature’s best gift – flowers. As the name “Phulkari” suggests “growing of flowers”, thus the motifs and patterns of Phulkari essentially contain floral designs and motifs. “Phul” means flowers and “Kari” means work. Bright colour combinations are used for the floral patterns and they can be seen in almost all traditional attires across Pakistan.
The most prominent colours of Phulkari are red, orange, green, blue and purple. Red symbolizes passion, orange – a divine energy, green – nature and fertility, blue – serenity, purple – is a combination of red’s energy and blue’s calmness. A splash of white also dot the Phulkari embroidery that represents purity.
Some of the popular motifs include Jasmine flower, marigold, sunflower, wave and peacock. Wool, cotton and silk threads are extensively used to create amazing patterns.
The fame of Phulkari is such that it is not limited to just women kurtas, but also adorn the vibrant dupattas, saris, bed covers, home furnishings, chappals, bags and cushions.
The Sheeshadar (mirror) Phulkari is decorated with small circular mirrors on a white ground.
Phulkari has gained popularity over the years and many Pakistani designers are now taking inspiration from this art and using this traditional embroidery in fashion weeks and designer clothes.