Traditionally Kantha as an art form, is considered colloquial, an occupation of women. It lacks the rich history that chikenkari, pitaiwork or zardozdi has in India. Kantha uses the rudimentary running stitch as its base, oftentimes in combinations to create patterns and sometimes to fill shapes and figures.
Intricately embroidered blankets, made using a patchwork of old sarees and other textiles were part of the wedding trousseau for young brides, usually made by the women of the bride’s family. These would depict scenes from nature or everyday domestic life and many of them had a narrative built into them.
The Pora Pata, or fallen leaf, is inspired by the shedding leaves of deciduous trees, a fitting example of nature inspiring creative outlet in women who were often not afforded such luxuries as an education.
