There is tremendous talent in embroidery skills all over India. Embroidery has enriched the day-to-day lives of the crafts-persons while being a source of livelihood. However, the revival of phool-patti embroidery needs to be twinned with ways to find new and contemporary expression in harmony with the needs and aspirations of future citizens of the world, while valuing the traditional. There is also a need to enhance understanding and provide necessary support, including for professional marketing and adaptation to global demands, as the craft moves into the new era.
The statement from an artisan from Aligarh that she would not like her daughter to do phool-patti embroidery, but move on to other work, is a reminder of the need for strengthening strategies for the well being of the crafts-persons to ensure a sustainable future of the artisan communities. It is hoped that this publication will trigger the interest among designers, entrepreneurs and policy planners to help innovate and evolve phool-patti ka kaam to meet the challenges and ensure up-gradation of skills as well as due share of economic returns and recognition for its artisans.
