Kantha embroidered saree

One of the oldest forms of Indian embroidery, Kantha embroidered saree originated in West Bengal. Traditionally used in quilt making, the embroidery later made way into sarees and gradually captured the whole world of fashion. At present, Kantha embroidered sarees are one of the most popular forms of sarees associated with Bengal. The main motive behind introducing Kantha stitch was to reuse old materials into something new and useful. Extensively practised by rural women, Kantha embroidery was done with a simple running stitch along the edges of sarees or dhotis to make cushions, quilts, blankets, bedspreads etc. But now Kantha embroidery is much more complex and detailed. Weaving a Kantha saree is quite labour intensive as it involves intricate work. Truly synonymous with Bengal, Kantha embroidered saree is a must buy while shopping for sarees in Kolkata. Some of the shops that you can visit are RMCA Basak (Gariahat), Priya Gopal Bishoyi and Sons (MG Road, Rashbehari Avenue) and Traders Assembly (Gariahat).