A Diverse Element of Bengali Folk Culture and Its History Nakshi Kantha

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Traditional stitching techniques include nikshi kantha. A component of Bengali culture, it. Different varieties of designs, flowers, birds, and herbs are painted on the cloth using red, blue, yellow, and other colours by mixing the sweetness of the mind. These unique exterior photos might be used to identify Nakshi Kantha. Bengalis are quite proud of it. Bengali ladies have been weaving nakshi kantha in their spare time and even when they are away from their loved ones since the dawn of time.

Since we're talking about Kantha work, I thought I'll show you a few pictures of Nakshi Kantha (embroidered quilts) Traditionally, these are never sold . They are only gifted. But now things have changed.

Different styles of Nakshi Kantha from different regions of Bangladesh are woven with geometric patterns, flowers, fruits, and other objects. A centre pattern is typically surrounded by lesser designs in kanthas. And the majority of these patterns have been weaved for thousands of years, drawing inspiration from Bengal's many religious traditions, which include Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism.

TYPES OF NAKSHI KANTHA

The Nakshi Kantha has changed a lot over the years, yet the designs remained the same

The Nakshi Kantha is very versatile, with different types of kantha serving different purposes. And even while being extremely utilitarian, the designs of the kantha always stands out, along with the stories behind every weave and thread. 

LEP KANTHA

It is a thick winter quilt that is sometimes used as a replacement for the lep during winter.

DASTARKHAN

It is laid on the floor and used as a place to sit and eat for guests.

SUJNI KANTHA

This is a kantha that is used as a bedsheet. In areas such as Naogaon, Kushtia, and Jashore, it is called the Parni Kantha or Nachhni. It is also laid down for guests to sit on.

NAKSHI THOLE

It is a kantha that is used as a sack for carrying betel leaf and betel nuts in events.

ARSHILOTA

It is used for wrapping mirrors and combs.

BORTON DHAKNA

This is used for covering up food during events.

GILAF

This kantha is used for covering up the Holy Quran and other religious books.

ASHON KANTHA

This is laid down in religious ceremonies in places where guests will sit.

HANDKERCHIEF KANTHA

This kantha is used as a handkerchief.

SHAWL KANTHA

This kantha is used as a shawl

The Nakshi Kantha still lives on to this day, albeit in a different form. Now it is a lot less artisanal and more commercial in nature. Instead of being made out of rags, they are now manufactured using imported yarn, and in many different colors. Now the familiar patterns of the Nakshi Kantha are used in tablecloths, bedsheets, cushions, and even dresses. What is your favorite design or type of Nakshi Kantha? Let me know in the comments.

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